Some Criticism About Criticism
Criticism done well is not antithetical to compassion; the two are closely interlinked as an act of kindness that prevents delusion and leading others astray.
criticism
5 Great Books That Reinvent Music Criticism
This is by no means a comprehensive survey of contemporary music criticism, but these five books all point a way forward for the field.
Judge – or Let the Market Be the Judge
Michael W. Clune argues that a popular mantra about art – everyone’s judgment is equal – impedes our ability to imagine a world outside of the capitalist marketplace.
What Has a Real Critic Got to Offer? On Stephanie Ross’ ‘Two Thumbs Up’
Stephanie Ross' book on aesthetic philosophy, Two Thumbs Up, can be used as a dissertation template. Just expect -- like a critic -- to argue with it, at times.
Ted Gioia’s ‘Music: A Subversive History’ (By the Book)
"Sound," writes musician, author, and historian Ted Gioia in Music: A Subversive History, "is the ultimate source of genesis... A song can contain a cataclysm." In this beguiling excerpt, Gioia leads us to the sound of the universe itself.
James Wood on Why Fiction and Criticism Matter
James Wood is exactly the sort of champion of belles lettres we need, and this collection is proof of it.
Much Ado About Art, Satire and Terrorism
As the debate rages over Charlie Hebdo’s controversial cartoons, Art Spiegelman offers sage advice on cartoons and free speech.