Critics
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- Published on Sunday, 25 September 2011 17:17
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A perfect judge will read each work of wit
With the same spirit that its author writ;
(Pope, An Essay on Criticism” 1709)
Criticism, what a threatening word. If you are a person that creates anything on this planet, you will be subject to it. Instead of wrestling with this beast I have come to terms with it, and just wish to share a little bit of my perspective in this matter.
The single most important factor I have come to realize is that no matter what it is you create, the need to separate yourself from it, to view it objectively as if it were its own , will enable you to use criticism in a constructive and non confrontational manner. The fact is if you have ever done anything worthwhile, people will either adore or despise you, and provoking these extreme feelings means you have struck a chord making your work meaningful. Sometimes these feelings can come from the same person. The person I admire most when it comes to how they reacted to criticism has to be the great composer Verdi. There were times when his operas were torn apart by the critics of his day. Many suggesting he should seek another line of work, ect. Well guess what, 150 years later his work is still packing opera houses throughout the world and is recognized as the gold standard for Italian opera. What if he had taken the advice of people who’s names we no longer remember? This is not to suggest we ignore criticism, we should just recognize it for what it is. Its criticism, which does not qualify it as a fact, merely the musings and interpretations of others. The most tragic mistake made by far too many great artists and people is basing their self worth and self esteem on the opinions of others. From Chef Vatel to the modern time of Bernard Loiseau it pains me to think of why the great ones fail to separate who they really are from what they do as a profession. To keep this short tonight if you do not know who these folks are just google them and learn a little about the culinary arts.
As for myself I know I would be a lousy critic of other peoples work. Knowing how difficult it is at times to present anything worthwhile makes me overly sympathetic to my colleagues, and the fact that I am still breathing makes me think everything is wonderful. I am at heart a cynic so if something did come out of my mouth I would regret it immediately. Hurting peoples feelings is not good criticism, its just plain mean. Sorry folks but my ramble warning light just came on and I’m booked full for tomorrow so I need my five hours sleep. Thanks to Tia for helping with the ravioli and I hope everyone has a dry and happy week.
Best,
Mike