Not a full recap, but…
a very intriguing question got raised at yesterday’s Standing Room Only event with publishing stars Aaron Talwar, Amy Gash, Janet Reid, Joelle Delbourgo, and Reagan Arthur.
I hope Suspense Your Disbelief readers will weigh in, get a real conversation going.
With major newspapers folding, taking their book reviews with them, and more on-line review sites springing up every day, are we living in the cult of the amateur? Or is the wisdom of crowds enough to rely on?
Hi Jenny,
Very lively, thought-provoking session. Intriguing question about the cult of the amateur. I think there will always be professional “filters” whose livelihoods will focus on screening information and weighing in with their views. The “cult of celebrity” is very powerful in our culture and these experts will always have enormous credibility. At the same time, as a writer, I find it refreshing and very encouraging that so many passionate readers can share their views about books they love. I think the danger is that these “amateurs” can now potentially have as much negative impact as the experts. That’s a lot of power!
Comment by Karin Abarbanel — October 24, 2010 @ 12:02 pm
The cult of celebrity–that’s true, too, Karin. And adds a whole other dimension. Thanks for stopping by the blog–hope to see you again!
Comment by jenny — October 24, 2010 @ 12:07 pm
I think it is a great opportunity for some voracious readers with reliable views to break out… it will take TIME, but I think people are capable of learning who to trust. I think though, we are definitely in for a long haul while a lot of people with their various agendas do reviews and readers scramble for who they can believe.
Comment by Hart — October 25, 2010 @ 7:58 am
You always have a wise, balanced perspective, Hart. I really appreciate hearing it. Wish you could’ve been there on Friday!
Comment by jenny — October 25, 2010 @ 8:00 am
Jenny,
To an extent, and in my experience as a playwright, “disappearing” reviewers is no different than “no” reviewers. Securing audiences has always included encouraging people to visit my blog or publishing platform on Scribd to read my plays as a selling tool to attend performances. Since I control what is available to be read, and anyone may read what is published, the sway of a negative/positive review based upon privileged access to the material is lessened.
Best,
William
# 30 #
Comment by Two Plus Plus Productions LLC — October 27, 2010 @ 11:31 am