(no subject)

[pantryslut]

Some people think that critics are pinched and bitter. Failed artists, maybe. People who feel bigger by tearing something down or picking it apart. I am painting in broad strokes here, but you know what I mean. Even people who aren't consciously biased against critics have been known to think this way.

It occurred to me this morning (in the shower, where all time stops) that my take is a bit different.

Critics are people who engage with text* as a conversation, rather than as a lecture. Who are not content to merely absorb the information given, but want to talk back.




* as always, this includes movies, music, TV, etc.

Comments

[cindymonkey.livejournal.com]

for me the difference is all about the tone of criticism. i heart the talking back critics and find that it makes me want to engage with the subject of the criticism even more - as an active participant / audience member etc. and then there are the folks with an axe to grind. personally - give me some talking back anytime. i love it. seriously LOVE it.

i find that sight and sound magazine gives the consistent talking back sort of film criticism.

[imnotandrei.livejournal.com]

1) That is a very interesting way to put it. I am also intrigued by the concept, embodied within, of public conversation -- we're used to sitting in lectures in public, but a conversation on such a scale is a different matter.

2) Damn, how much thinking *did* you get done in that shower this morning? I know how long it was...

3) (playing off #2) Should we get you a waterproof laptop and a tub-stool so you can write in the shower? ;)

4) are pinched and bitter. Don't you mean "dead inside and hate themselves"*? {ducks}

*(injoke)

[brisingamen.livejournal.com]

Critics are people who engage with text* as a conversation, rather than as a lecture. Who are not content to merely absorb the information given, but want to talk back.

You know, I really like this. I have a much better understanding of what I'm trying to do with my life at the moment.