Feb 14 • 16:00 UTC 🇧🇷 Brazil Folha (PT)

To like an artist, you need to know what they think about Donald Trump

The author reflects on the dilemma of having to consider artists' political opinions, particularly about Donald Trump, before forming opinions about their work.

The piece discusses the phenomenon of having to evaluate artists not just on their artistic merit, but also based on their political views, especially those related to Donald Trump. The author humorously illustrates this dilemma using the example of Bad Bunny's Super Bowl performance, suggesting that liking or disliking the show could label one as either a 'Trump derangement syndrome' sufferer or a Trump supporter. This reflects a broader cultural trend where personal tastes are increasingly intertwined with political ideologies, leading to a complex relationship between art and politics.

The author shares a personal anecdote about a disappointing experience with slippers that were suddenly criticized for not supporting Brazil's former president, Jair Bolsonaro, indicating the often absurd lengths to which personal opinions on products or performances are scrutinized based on political affiliations. This highlights the challenge of navigating a world where choices about liking or disliking culture are overshadowed by political discourse.

In conclusion, the article suggests that while it may be tempting to judge artists and their work through the lens of their political beliefs, it complicates the enjoyment of art itself, as demonstrated with the uncertainty about Caravaggio's views on contemporary issues. This overarching message reflects growing societal pressures and the impact of political correctness on personal enjoyment of culture.

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