In simple terms, Kevin Young echoes Duke Ellington's philosophy about music by categorizing it into two types: good music and everything else. This straightforward division suggests a clear distinction between what he considers to be high-quality or meaningful compositions and those that fall short of this standard.
Beyond its literal interpretation, the quote invites reflection on subjective judgment in art and personal taste. It raises questions about who gets to define quality in music and whether such a binary classification is fair or even useful. Ellington's view might imply a certain level of expertise or authority in discerning what constitutes "good" music, which can be both empowering and divisive. This perspective challenges listeners and creators alike to consider their own criteria for evaluating musical works, encouraging introspection about the value systems we apply to art.
Kevin Young is an acclaimed American poet, essayist, curator, and literary critic known for his contributions to contemporary literature and cultural commentary. His work often explores themes of race, identity, and history in African American culture. As the former poetry editor at The New Yorker and director of the Schomburg Center for Research in Black Culture, Young has a significant presence in both the academic and artistic communities, making him an influential voice on matters related to literature and arts criticism.
