VIVI'S MANIFESTO
I didn’t realize the complex layers within criticism until now. I had always dismissed it as a simple recap or a number of stars. Now, I see that a rich and meaningful review can include personal connection and should have cultural and self-awareness.
Learning about the significance of diversity in critical writing was valuable for me. I hadn’t considered that a majority of established critics are older white men who carry certain biases or styles of writing. As with any field, there is danger in only hearing from one voice. Being a critic means recognizing your own background and understanding that those roots may impact the angle of your review.
The role of a critic means maintaining honesty. It can be easy to submit to the ideas of friends or other critics, but that would jeopardize voicing your individual ideas that could benefit others. Honesty diversifies the critic pool, because it often results in mixed reviews and a spectrum of opinions. It also establishes a sense of personality in a review, because writers will be inclined to be more self-expressive than rule-abiding.
I think a strong critic will have a sure opinion and distinctive voice. A strong review has a tone that matches that of the subject being reviewed. If the book or movie is funny, let humor infiltrate the review. If it’s about social justice or other heavy issues, let that intensity carry throughout the critique. A good description will provide the basis of the review and sprinkled throughout will be the critic’s opinion, backed up by examples.
After taking critical writing this semester, I feel confident writing honestly and conversationally, and I understand the importance of taking in a wide range of ideas. Expressing your true opinion, colored by your own voice, empowers other critics from their various backgrounds and cultures to do the same.
TYREE'S MANIFESTO
The role of the modern critic is to be an honest voice for a particular art, product, or experience. The objective with his or her critique unbiased, however, a connection should be made. A true critic has the ability to create and present a sub-surface observation that involves more than deciding whether something is good or bad. When critiquing media and art, one must determine the goals of the piece and decided if the goals have been met. They must also analyze the process the creator used to reach said goals. For the past 4 months, I had the opportunity to examine a number of different things from a new lens. From books to live performances, a critic's work should be in the best interest of the general consumer.
I believe there is more than one type of critic and this is indisputably for the best. Diversity is always in the best interest of the role. The accumulation of ideas not only provides perspective from the minority, but also allows for the avoidance of biases. In most cases, older white males make up the majority of a number of different industries and institutions. But what could a white male tell you about a Black family in Brooklyn or an authentic Spanish restaurant? While their opinion is warranted, it should not be the only one. The upbringing or values of the critic, whether directly or indirectly, are likely to be conveyed within his or her piece. Diversity within the field ensures that minority pieces are not faulted due to a lack of cultural understanding.
I believe the most important role of a critic is, to tell the truth. In the age of technology, Everyone has the ability to share their thoughts and opinions at a moments notice. Sites like Yelp allow the common consumer to post reviews regardless if they are credited sources. Therefore, it should be expected that critics tell the truth in order to have a reliable source for consumers to trust in. Critics should judge work based on the work itself and not preconceived notions or biases. This is a critic that understands the importance of the credentials he or she has.
COURTNEY'S MANIFESTO
Critics consume, analyze and evaluate art.
Critics should be open-minded and willing to try new things. They should not be easily persuaded or influenced by what’s popular. The most important thing a critic can be is honest. A critic’s opinion should not matter if it is not honest and thoughtful.
Critics should be able easily identify why they like or dislike something, and justify their opinions with evidence. Critics should be willing to research and gather background information about what they review. If they posture themselves as an authority on something, then they should be very knowledgeable about what they review.
Critics should create reviews based on what they are interested in, and should enjoy creating their reviews. They should put effort into their reviews, but not take themselves too seriously. There is a lane for many different review styles - whether it’s funny or serious.
Critics should allow their personalities and important aspects of their identities shine through in their reviews. This helps promote a broader range of opinions and critiques.
Good critics should be able to review art without giving spoilers. This can be a tricky process, because you must determine what to summarize and what to let the audience experience for themselves.
Critics must also have strong skin. They should not be easily offended when others do not agree with their opinions. They should also be able to understand the importance of opposing views. Good critics should be able to explain their opinions to a wide audience - whether its teenagers or academics.
Integrity is another important that critics must possess. Critics should know when to pass on reviewing something because of a conflict of interest or strong bias that may influence them. if critics do review something that may be a conflict of interest, they need to note it in their review.
Everyone has opinions, but critics’ opinions matter because they should be more meaningful than the average opinion.
IRANOLA'S MANIFESTO
The role of a critic is one that is complex, yet extremely necessary in our society. I have learned that although everyone has an opinion, not everyone can strategically express theirs in a way that others can trust and continuously depend on.
A critic is an essential representative of those who are similar to them in any way. Therefore, a critic must showcase their distinct personality in each of their reviews. This means that a critic’s tone must be consistent and identifiable. This also allows the reader to become familiar with the critic and their personality, establishing a connection between them.
A critic should also be willing and comfortable writing reviews that cater to a variety of audiences. This is important because as a reader, one can only trust a review if they know that a person like them was kept in mind or considered when the critic was writing the review. If a reader feels included and valued, they are more likely to respect the author’s perspective and return to later reviews.
I also believe a critic should be a deep-thinker, analyzer, and overall observant person. They should be able notice things that most people do not and provide specific details in their reviews. This is a characteristic alone is one that will engage any reader. Personally, it may be the characteristic I value the most. Because whether or not I connect with the critic or like their personality, if I believe the critique informs me and answers all of the questions I had prior to reading the review, I am likely to come back.
But above all else, a critic must be honest. This is imperative because although one does not have to agree with the critic or their point of view, they must be able to trust them. One must be confident that their perspective is genuine, whether or not it differs from the view of the general public. They cannot and should not be influenced by the opinions of others.