Art Quote by Hank Bordowitz
““In one of the most scathing of these reviews, New York Times critic Robert Palmer wrote: “He has mastered the art of making lyrics that are banal—and, when they are about women, frequently condescending—sound vaguely important. He has mastered the art of making the simplest drum accent sound as portentous as a peal of thunder and of introducing his side-men’s solos with such dramatic flourishes that they almost sound like gifted, sensitive musicians rather than like the hacks they are. He has won a huge following by making emptiness seem substantial and Holiday Inn lounge schlock sound special.””
About This Quote
Source Review: New York Times article by Robert Palmer, date unknown
The critic accuses the artist of turning banal lyrics and ordinary music into pretentious, seemingly profound works, masking emptiness with elaborate presentation
In simple terms: The artist makes simple, shallow content appear important through overblown production
Key Takeaway
Beware superficial depth; seek authentic substance
Themes
art
media criticism
music industry
authenticity
pretension
Mood
critical
skeptical
analytical
Type
Art:1
York Times:1
Critic Robert:0
Robert Palmer:1
Schlock Sound:1
Palmer Wrote:0
Lounge Schlock:1
When to use this quote
- listening to popular music
- writing music reviews
- teaching media literacy
- evaluating artistic merit
Key Concepts
aesthetic manipulation
cultural commentary
musical analysis
Questions to Reflect On
- What makes you accept or reject artistic pretension?
- How does presentation affect perceived value?
A Different Perspective
The praise may be genuine for some listeners, despite the critic’s negative view
