Introduction to “Authority”

Andrea Long Chu’s “Authority” presents a compelling collection of essays that delve into the realms of literature, criticism, and personal reflection. The book has garnered attention for its blend of incisive critique and thoughtful commentary on gender and sexuality, showcasing Chu’s unique viewpoint as a trans woman.

The Critic’s Unique Perspective

Chu, a prominent book critic for New York Magazine and recipient of the 2023 Pulitzer Prize for criticism, has reached a notable position in the literary landscape through her incisive critiques of various authors and her essays on complex social themes. Her academic background informs her approach, as she refers to herself as a scholar in “recovery.” In her writing, she employs a style reminiscent of influential Marxist critic Fredric Jameson, navigating swiftly between ideas while instilling an authoritative tone.

The Allure of “Hate Reads”

Chu’s engagement with literature often reflects a controversial stance—she asserts that her criticisms are driven by a certain “viciousness,” expressing a deliberate aim for “cruelty.” This approach resonates with readers who appreciate sharp, unforgiving critiques, particularly when they align with Chu’s perspective.

Types of Writing in “Authority”

The essays in “Authority” can be classified into three distinct categories: reviews, personal essays, and reflections on the art of criticism. Among these, her reviews stand out as exceptional displays of her critical prowess, marked by piercing insights and humor. For instance:

• Regarding Bret Easton Ellis’s critique on contemporary culture in “White,” Chu comments, “Having never grown up himself, he clings to the hope someone else will grow up in his place.”
• On Hanya Yanagihara’s work, she describes “‘A Little Life’ as an unapologetic lifestyle novel.”
• Her thoughts on Andrew Lloyd Webber include a colorful analogy: “His characters declaimed their emotions directly into the audience, as if by T-shirt cannon.”

Critique and Emotional Depth

While Chu’s incisive critiques are enlightening, they often come at a cost. Critics observe that she appears to lack genuine affection for literature; her method reduces works to political and historical frameworks without celebrating their emotional resonance. This tendency to dismantle rather than appreciate literature raises questions about her overall taste. For example, her highest praise is notably reserved for “The Last of Us,” which she describes as “a superb realization of a modest goal.”

The Complexity of Personal Reflection

Chu’s critiques of her own experiences as a trans woman are profoundly insightful. However, they occasionally reflect a hesitance, as if aware that any overt emotional expression could be scrutinized by an equally shrewd critic. It is within the rare instances of vulnerability—such as her reflections on her past life experiences or her emotional responses to personal milestones—that the essays shift into a more poignant realm.

Conclusion: The Price of Authority

The underlying themes of Chu’s work suggest a struggle against the backdrop of late capitalism and social injustice, illuminating her sense of urgency and anger in her writing. This intensity may contribute to her literary ascent, as readers seek voices that reflect contemporary frustrations.

However, instances where she veers away from her acrid critiques—especially in reviews of contemporary authors within her social circle—raise concerns about consistency. Some readers may perceive this as a conflict between her critical principles and her social affiliations. Ultimately, Chu’s “Authority” serves as a radical exploration of modern literature and its myriad interpretations, encapsulating both the intricacies of her critiques and the complexities of her lived experience.