Snark: Library Edition

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Published June 1, 2009 by Tantor Media Inc.

ISBN:: 978-1-60847-870-5

(1 review)

A New Yorker film critic and author of American Sucker evaluates the cultural consequences of snide and sarcastic language that has become pervasive in today's political, entertainment, and other public arenas, in an assessment that cites the importance of developing true wit instead of insult-based forms of communication.

5 editions

sdogood reviewed Snark: a polemic in seven fits by David Denby

Review of 'Snark' on 'Goodreads'

3 stars

Denby's topic is the popularity of snide insulting remarks, especially by people who claim membership in an in-group, which empowers and entitles them. These practices do not lead to healthy debate or other worthwhile outcomes. They tend to create a culture of conformists fearful of having personal idiosyncrasies or an identity beyond what the hip in-group allows. This is a thoughtful book that seeks to improve public discourse.