Reviews, Theatre Criticism and Perfect Opinions

Having our work reviewed publicly is a strange and unavoidable part of writing. It's something we all have to deal with when we put new work out into the world. In today's episode I talk about reviews, theatre criticism and 'perfect opinions'. I touch on: 

- Writers' different appetites for reading reviews of their work. 

- The difference between theatre criticism and reviews.

- Frustrations with an imperfect reviewing culture.

- How reviews are one small piece of the broader cultural and critical response your work. 

- Knowing what's important to you. Whether that's the audience response, the industry response, the response from the community the work represents, box office sales, awards and nominations etc. 

- Asking who or what art criticism meant to serve?

- My thoughts on writers being part of the broader conversation surrounding their work. 

I reference: 

'Beejay Silcox on literary criticism and the art of judging' on The Garret podcast

Thank you for listening. If you're enjoying the podcast, leaving a rating or a review is a really friendly way to show your support. 

To learn more about my work, visit my website, connect with me on Instagram @emilysheehan__ or send me an email at emily@emilysheehan.info.