Commentary

Literary Appreciation: Grace Paley and the Swiveling Light of Truth

December 13, 2022
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An homage to Grace Paley, one of the great American writers of the 20th century.

Translator Interview: John Taylor on Philippe Jaccottet

December 8, 2022
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“We have entered an age of unequivocal partisan discourse, of linguistic robotization, of tiny symbols standing for complex emotions. In total contrast to this, Philippe Jaccottet’s writing constantly shows nuance, attentiveness, perseverance, circumspection, and a genuine quest for essential truths.”

Arts Commentary: Remembering the Culture Wars of the ’90s

December 8, 2022
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Freedom of expression is a more precious commodity than taste. Conservative critics were very clear about their moral imperative; they confidently vilified artists and terrorized institutions. No one won the culture wars — we lost them.

Book Review: “Barred: Why the Innocent Can’t Get Out of Prison” — Blind Justice

December 6, 2022
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Daniel S. Medwed demonstrates just how astronomical the odds are against anyone who tries to question a guilty verdict, no matter how suspect the conviction.

Arts Commentary: Annie Ernaux, Abortion, and Me

December 6, 2022
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What is literature if it doesn’t kick you in the ass every now and then and get you to act? Maybe that’s what the Nobel committee thought when it awarded Annie Ernaux this year’s Literature Prize.

Jazz/Film Review: “An Evening of Jazz Healing” — A Thing of Beauty and Sharing

December 3, 2022
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Jazz, in particular, seemed to not merely satisfy Justin Freed’s inner cravings for beauty, but it led him outwards, to others, eventually inspiring some of the key relationships in his life.

Film Commentary: A Trio of Terrific Films Turn 50

December 2, 2022
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Our critics salute three memorable films — anti-fascist (Cabaret), anti-capitalist (The Ruling Class), and anti-war (Slaughterhouse-Five) — that turned fifty this year. Perfect viewing for the holidays.

Arts Commentary/Interview: The Climate Crisis and Theater — A Playwright’s Perspective

November 28, 2022
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Do we feel the environment breakdown in our gut? Will people looking back see art that conveyed the existential threat of the emergency?

Arts Remembrance: Lucia Small, 1963-2022

November 21, 2022
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This is a profound loss to cinema and to Boston’s filmmaking community in particular, a close-knit group in which Lucia Small enjoyed many friendships and engaged in fruitful collaborations.

Arts Biz Commentary Update: Ticketmaster and Live Nation Entertainment Got Some Explainin’ to Do

November 19, 2022
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How do you spell a monopoly that is killing the live music industry? Live Nation Entertainment, Inc.

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