Michiko Kakutani is a renowned American author and a former New York Times book critic. She has gained recognition for her influential book reviews.
The genres she typically critiques include contemporary fiction, memoirs, and historical accounts. Her critiques are known for sharpness, depth, and thoughtfulness. She brings a unique perspective to her critiques.
For instance, in 2006, Kakutani described Jonathan Franzen's The Discomfort Zone as "an odious self-portrait of the artist as a young jackass." said Kakutani.
She also connects her critiques to larger cultural, social, and political contexts. She would write about how books influenced their time.
She would evaluate books for broader recognition. Her reviews could also impact the success of a book.
Similarly, in 1994, Kakutani reviewed Elizabeth Wurtzel's Prozac Nation, noting that the memoir was "by turns wrenching and comical, self-indulgent and self-aware," and compared it to the "raw candor of Joan Didion's essays, the irritating emotional exhibitionism of Sylvia Plath's The Bell Jar, and the wry, dark humor of a Bob Dylan song." said Kakutani.
Her evaluation oftentimes focused on challenges facing modern society. As fake news became more popular, she would evaluate and speak up about it. She analyzed the way narratives and facts were increasingly manipulated in the media.
Her reviews hold a high influence because they were highly regarded by other critics, journalists, and editors. Her critiques are smart, thoughtful, and uncompromising.
Kakutani was influenced and impacted the book critique world. Her critiques are highly regarded and respected throughout the journalism and book world.
"Kakutani was America’s most powerful literary critic, someone who wielded immense influence over the careers of both budding and established novelists," said Wikiquote.
Kakutani has been a strong-willed book critic since day one. She has always written exactly what she thinks and feels.
Good job on this. A reader comes away with a good sense of why Kakutani was so well known, well respected and also feared. She had a powerful voice in a very powerful position, and that comes through from your piece. Remind me to show you a few tips when we're back at class. Great job!
ReplyDelete