The Case for Criticism

In this episode of Critics at Large, Vinson Cunningham, Alex Schwartz, and Naomi Fry delve into the state of criticism as an art form and a profession. They discuss the perceived decline in arts journalism, the rise of critical populism, and the weaponization of criticism in online spaces. The hosts explore what defines good criticism, highlighting the importance of deep thinking, attention to detail, humor, and the ability to connect art to everyday life. They pay tribute to the late Joan Acocella, a New Yorker critic, and discuss the critics and works of criticism that have influenced their own approaches. Ultimately, they argue for the continued importance of criticism as a means of engaging with the world, making sense of art, and fostering a deeper understanding of our shared human experience.