How to Criticize Art

I recently saw a friend get in an argument online about how he didn't like Led Zepplin. People were throwing this guy under the bus, telling him how he didn't know anything about music, how he had bad taste, and of course the trolling internet guy that says "shut up and die." The frustrating part was that the poster made some legitimate arguments regarding his stance, and the others simply wouldn't have it. 

I started to ponder: how should we criticize art, and further, how should we criticize each other's opinions on art?

First, I think it's important for people to stop using the phrase "you are wrong" unless it's 100% provable with facts. I think it's worthless to say things like "you're crazy" or "you clearly don't get it," which makes the sayer of such sayings appear as though they have no counterpoint, nothing to add, and therefore they are just a troll.  I think it's dangerous to read things on the Internet ONCE and go off on a rant without considering all that is being said for at least a little while. It's very easy to misinterpret text--especially in a fiery debate. Things are quickly typed and often are posted without proofreading, so do the world a courtesy and read things carefully. If you're unsure, ask a Question. "what do you mean?" Etc. don't form a deep rooted argument in seconds because you chose to read a sentence in your own voice. Try to read posts in the posters voice, not literally, but try to see where they are coming from, why they might say what they say, and whether or not they have thought about it, or if it seems like they're venting in a stream of consciousness fashion. 

When it comes to art, try using phrases like "I prefer," or "I think," rather than commands or insults. If someone makes something that you dislike, try to ask WHY they did what they did. And guess what - you don't have to ask them in public (online included), just ponder it yourself. Try to be better by asking yourself difficult questions. Next time you hear a song or see a piece of art or a photo or video, one that you're not particularly fond of, I challenge you to do just that. Absorb the entirety of the work, Sit there in silence for about 5 minutes, and just think about it. Really think about it. Healthy questions include:

1. What was the intent of this piece?

2. Why did they execute it this way?

3. What emotions or feelings does this present?

4. How does it relate to me?

5. Why do I like it / dislike it? 

If you like the piece, compliment it. If you dislike the piece... Here's a hint: you don't have to voice it. If the poster asks for opinions, feel free. If they don't, consider what you say before you post. Don't just start typing and hope the words come out right---actually sit there and think about your response. You can keep things to yourself, you know. I think it's important to criticize art in your own mind, even if you don't say anything about it. It helps you grow.

Trust me, I'm a firm believer in criticism, so long as it is constructive, and as long as it's warranted. As I've said before, I think white lies are terrible things when it comes to art - as I sometimes say "bluntness keeps you sharp." Constructive criticism also only works if the criticizer forms a legitimate opinion. Constructive criticism looks like this:

"I have an idea..."

"Have you considered..."

"I personally feel this could be better if..."
"Perhaps you could try..." 

Asking questions to the creator of the art is always a good thing. I mean real, honest questions. Not rhetorical or snarky questions, e.g, "what were you thinking?" That doesn't help. It fuels argument, which fuels tunnel vision. 

Criticism is good. I think it helps people grow. People being stuck in their own way is very common, but it can be dangerous sometimes. Ever been in a fight so long that you forget why it started? The same can happen with other tastes and opinions. Sometimes people care more about defending their opinion than the more important thing: constantly seeking knowledge, truth, and happiness. Everybody wants those things, right? I do. But I digress. 

What's wrong with this dude disliking Zep when he has a valid reason? For the record, things like "cuz they suk bro" is NOT a valid reason. I'm talking about a thought-out opinion. The more I think about it, why should this guy have to defend himself with a reason in the first place? Can't he have an opinion? Can't he have taste? Can't he dislike Indian food but love Korean cuisine? What's wrong with people having preferences?

There's this odd sensation that sweeps through the Internet - the desire to have the same opinion. The desire to agree. The desire to convince others of one's own opinion. Why is that? Why do people try so hard to convince others that their opinions are wrong? 

There's a time for putting someone in their place if they've presented outright false information, or if they are about to do or say something stupid. There's also a time to debate when it's civil and actually wanted or needed. But for the most part, why can't we relish the fact that we are diverse? 

From where does this strange notion come? I think it must come from the innate desire to connect, or to be companions, or to be similar and share common ground. But isn't diversity what makes us what we are? The irony here is that people strive to be similar, but yet they want to be special and unique at the same time. We all shudder when we see dystopian-society-themed movies where everyone is a mindless zombie under the control of Big Brother, yet we strive for a global community, singular opinions, and consistent tastes. How strange.

It's frustrating to watch people argue about whether or not something is "good" or "bad," or whether the creator was "talented" or "mediocre" or "terrible." We have probably all been in those arguments. A more stimulating and interesting argument is one that looks past the face and goes beneath to the meaning, for example:

Bad:

"This movie sucks."

"No it doesn't, You suck."

Better: 

"The plot in this movie sucked."

"No it didn't, it had a lot of substance."

Even better: 

"I think this movie lacked a strong storyline, and the character development was weak. It just didn't grab me like I thought it would."

"I think the ambiguity was designed into the film to make you feel disconnected, just as the characters feel disconnected."

The third option above proves that both parties have taken an introspective look into their reaction to the film. They've really considered their stance on a deep level, and they've got a good argument to back it up. I know this can't always happen, but it's a goal, right? 

I think opinions should be rewarded, and discussed. Insulting comments are weak: they signify someone who can't formulate a legitimate constructive criticism, or someone that is being overrun with their emotions that are clouding their judgement. Remember: don't feel the need to criticize just because something is posted. If feedback is warranted, or if it's clear the poster is looking for discussion, then go for it. Otherwise, remember what your mother said: "if you don't have anything good to say, don't say it at all." 

Here's a great video resource for more good tips:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9neybpOvjaQ