i am a mass communication student..

i needed it very badly…

thanks friends….

Definitely agree that the definition of art is highly subjective. I think we’re proving that here.

As for the loud music, looking rebel, and getting drunk — Fitzgerald and Hemingway would have called that “performance art” if the term had been coined at the time. In fact Fitzgerald illustrated drunkeness as an artform quite well in his short story “May Day” with Mr. In and Mr. Out.

~Graham

I think fiction writing or that sort of thing is much more of an art than web content writing or sales copywriting. Hard to see much art in the “BUY NOW OR YOU’LL DIE!” kind of pitch, unless it’s the art of manipulation (which isn’t the same as the art of writing). There’s more art in poetry or a good fantasy novel, I think.

So perhaps it depends on the type of writing. And perhaps it depends on the definition of art, too, which is highly subjective to individual preference. Not sure if individual expression can be considered art, either… I like rock n’ roll, leather jackets and red wine. Expressing those through loud music, looking rebel and getting drunk wouldn’t be art, now, would it?

Actually I did read it, but (respectively) I’m not sure I agree.

First of all, the definition of trade and craft you posted describes both trade and craft as a “practical occupation” — again, which strictly speaking refers to using one’s hands. So when you boil down the words to their original meanings, you it’s impossible to fit writing into the category of trade or craft. Metaphorically, yes. But if you are whipping out dictionaries, then no.

Secondly, I lean more towards the other side of the spectrum when it comes to art. I see art in all parts of life: how you drive, how you dress, even how you do dishes. Indeed, I find injecting a little “art” into mundane activities as a way of having a bit of fun with it.

I do agree with you that Shakespeare, Da Vinci, et al. are much better artists than the average joe. But what is art if not an expression of yourself? Some people just express themselves better than others.

When it comes specifically to writing, I feel that it is both art and craft (using the metaphorical meaning). It’s like the whole nature/nurture debate: the truth lies somewhere in the middle. Sharon, you called this “sitting on the fence” but I don’t think that’s true. It is just realizing that it takes both art and craft to put together a coherent sentence (paragraph, article, book…). Art without craft is lilly dewed sunsets aligned pressure stones.

Again James I stress that I don’t reject your idea of art and craft. You did a great job of proving your case. It’s just not a viewpoint that I can embrace.

Either way though, it makes for a great discussion!

~Graham

Thanks for your well thought out comment. Having taught journalism I know you’re right both about the learned practice of writing (the craft) and the extra touches (the art).