Adam Kirsch: Criticize for Understanding

Adam Kirsch says that criticism is different than what it was thought of as during Kazin's time. He says that if a critic's only purpose were to make an argument, he or she does not make a "great critic, or a lasting one." Kirsch's definition of a good criticism is one that uses whatever they are criticizing to say something true about the world. Argument is just one form. As for types of criticism, one can try to write for a general audience, but Kirsch says that is becoming more and more difficult today. Keeping in mind the specific audience is important though. He believes that critics have become less trusted in these times, but overall to be a good critic, write truth for understanding.

I do agree with his idea that criticism should be used to find understanding. Without criticism, there would be no discussion, which is the base for our society. I like his point that besides just the blatant argument, criticism should be used to say something deeper. Criticism is necessary in modern literature to keep the discussion on issues, surface and deep, going.