Tahni Segars' Manifesto

Throughout the course of this critical writing class, I’ve learned that everyone has a voice. Everyone has an inherent quality of being a critic. I started out believing that to be a critic of art, books, movies, etc., you needed thorough knowledge of that subject matter; however, I’ve become aware of the readers of these reviews. Readers don’t necessarily want to read a review with technical jargon that only experts are familiar with. They want to know what John, Sarah, Catherine, or whomever from down the street, the next cubicle over, or the grocery store think about the newest Brad Pitt flick. Does a critic need to do his/her research? Yes. But they don’t have to be an extraordinary guitarist or novelist to relay an opinion on a new Beck album or Grisham’s current bestseller.

As a critic in today’s journalism realm, I would pay specific attention to what readers want. With so many technological advances on the Internet, it’s easy to track online followers and keep up with their thoughts via comments and trackable clicks. In my experience, my strengths lie in reviewing restaurants, food and art. In these areas of public interest, it’s important to keep up with new establishments in the community as well as current and upcoming visual and performing art exhibits.

I think a common misconception about the critic, is that they are the stuffy guys in the corner, studying the menu with a magnifying glass, a blazer with suede elbow patches and a finely tuned knowledge of all things haughty and pretentious. But today’s critic is no further than your own couch.

People will continue to want opinions on upcoming television shows, new chefs and award-winning performances before they spend their hard-earned dollars, especially in the current economic situation. Critics and reviewers have a future. Whether it’s printed on the pages of the local Times or Post, or you find all your info online through friends, Twitter, Rotten Tomatoes or blogs, the ever-changing role of the critic will always be needed.