In this quote, Tom Wolfe reflects on a time when he wrote an essay about modern art called "The Painted Word" and faced criticism from those who labeled him as reactionary or outdated. He clarifies that his work was merely an historical account of the subject, albeit one that carried significant implications.
Wolfe's statement delves into the complexities of how people perceive and react to critical analysis. By describing his essay as "just a history," he suggests that any interpretation or reaction to it should be grounded in its factual content rather than preconceived notions about modern art. However, Wolfe also hints at the loaded nature of the piece by acknowledging it as being “rather loaded,” which implies that despite presenting historical facts, the way these facts are presented might provoke strong reactions due to their controversial implications or contextual relevance.
Tom Wolfe is an American author known for his contributions to New Journalism and his incisive social commentary. His work often focuses on dissecting cultural phenomena through a critical lens, making him a notable figure in contemporary literature and journalism.
