"Style is the mannequin on which character is displayed."
This quote suggests that a person's style, whether it's in clothing, speech, or behavior, serves as a visible representation or expression of their underlying character traits. It highlights how one's personality, values, and individuality often manifest outwardly through the choices they make in terms of appearance and demeanor. Essentially, James Wolcott is emphasizing that the way we present ourselves can provide valuable insights into who we are as individuals.
"Art for art's sake is a concept that tends to appeal to those whose art is less than satisfactory."
This quote by James Wolcott suggests that the idea of "art for art's sake" (creating art purely for its inherent value, without any concern for practical purpose) may be embraced more readily by artists whose work lacks significant merit or impact. In other words, those who create art that does not meet traditional standards of quality might use the notion of art being an end in itself as a justification for their work's lack of substance or relevance.
"The higher you climb up the tree of fame, the more exposed your underwear becomes."
This quote implies that as one gains prominence or fame in life (climbing the "tree of fame"), they become increasingly vulnerable and exposed to public scrutiny and criticism. Just like a person's undergarments become visible when climbing a tree, personal flaws, weaknesses, or past indiscretions can be revealed for all to see when in the spotlight of fame. This quote serves as a reminder that achieving success often comes with an increased risk of public exposure and judgment.
"The best-selling book is not necessarily the most worthwhile read."
This quote suggests that popularity, as measured by sales numbers, does not automatically equate to a book's inherent value or worthiness in terms of its content or impact. In other words, just because a book sells well doesn't mean it's the best or most meaningful one to read.
"Artists are like children: they always want to do it themselves and never believe anyone else can."
This quote by James Wolcott suggests that artists, much like children, possess an inherent desire for self-expression and creativity. They are often independent thinkers who value their unique perspectives and have a strong belief in their own abilities. This self-reliant attitude can sometimes lead them to doubt the capabilities of others, preferring instead to execute their ideas themselves rather than delegating tasks or collaborating extensively with others.
Paris Hilton and Kim Kardashian would have left little more than lipstick stains in their passing had it not been for the sex videos that lofted them into reality-TV notoriety. Once notoriety has warmed into familiarity, celebrity itself becomes one big 'Brady Bunch' reunion, or a therapy session with Dr. Drew.
- James Wolcott
Feature-length film comedy is harder to pull off than the episodic sitcom - it doesn't have the same factory machinery up and running, teams of writers putting familiar characters through permutations - but that doesn't explain the widening quality gap that makes movie humor look like a genetic defective.
- James Wolcott
The days when the words 'Hollywood actor' framed Ronald Reagan like bunny fingers as an ID tag and an implied insult seem far-off and quaint: nearly everybody in politics - candidate, consultant, pundit, and Tea Party crowd extra alike - is an actor now, a shameless ham in a hoked-up reality series that never stops.
- James Wolcott
Stars wide of belt often cultivated a gentlemanly grandeur, a groomed refinement that filtered through their fingertips - the dainty fidgets of Hardy's plump digits, Orson Welles performing magic tricks with nimble dexterity, Jackie Gleason lofting a teacup to his lips as if he were Lady Bracknell - or through a fine set of twinkle-toes.
- James Wolcott
Bad acting comes in many bags, various odors. It can be performed by cardboard refugees from an Ed Wood movie, reciting their dialogue off an eye chart, or by hopped-up pros looking to punch a hole through the fourth wall from pure ballistic force of personality, like Joe Pesci in a bad mood. I can respect bad acting that owns its own style.
- James Wolcott
In 2008, Barack Obama did get Democrats hyperventilating, whipped up to a creamy froth, while John McCain creaked ahead like a cranky granddad whom Republicans let move to the front of the buffet line, deferring to seniority, as they had in 1996, when Bob Dole turtled to the top of the ticket.
- James Wolcott
And what could be a hotter ticket than the improbable triumph of 'The Book of Mormon,' the musical-comedy moon shot of the season? Its creators, Matt Stone and Trey Parker, of Comedy Central's 'South Park,' are the most unlikely Rodgers and Hammerstein team ever to bowl a thundering strike.
- James Wolcott
One reason I'm such a wayward prognosticator of rightwing trends is that I'm incapable of blacking out enough neural sectors to see the world through reptilian-brained eyes, a prerequisite for any true channeling of the mean resentments and implanted fears that drive hardcore conservatives.
- James Wolcott
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