If you want to review the arts you should have an experienced background in what it is that you are writing about. You should have an open mind to the situation. Going in with the mindset that the thing you are reviewing has probably already done more than you. You have to respect the art for what it is and remember your place. You’re free to say your opinion but let it be known that it’s only your opinion.
If it’s good writing you’ll be clear in your stance. You’ll open a new person up to what you’re writing about. And, hopefully, piss some people off while doing so. Here’s six of my best tips.
1. Be to the point –time is valuable and people aren’t going to read any more than they absolutely have to.
2. Be honest – don’t speak in a voice other than your own, unless it’s funny.
3. Don’t over think things – spit it out.
4. Remember your role – don’t shit on the artist if you don’t have to.
5. Point the reader in the right direction – if not this, then what?
And lastly, the best advice I can give:
6. Don’t do it.
If you want to review the arts to get famous, don’t do it. If you want to review the arts to get girls at parties, don’t do it. If you want to do it to promote your friends, don’t. If you want to do it for street cred, don’t. Your voice is no more powerful than the next, especially when it’s on paper in front of a stranger. And when it’s behind a screen, that’s even worse. Do it only if you absolutely have to.
Ha ha! Bonus points for working in "If not this then what?" into your answer. This is a bracing little manifesto, I'm glad this is what you're taking away from the class. Your review essay has this same upbeat energy that's a really strong aspect of your writing. DRP
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