Robert - I agree with your notions on the loss of meaning surrounding the
word "post-modern". I feel that through misuse and overuse the definition
of PoMo has been skewed. It no longer is just a theoretical term used to
read and analyze art, it has become a "buzz" word among, as you put
it, "trend-seeking mass media types and academics alike".
It has even gone as far as being used as a plot device in itself on weekly
TV. A recent episode of The Simpsons had Moe's Tavern transformed into a
chic "PoMo" nightspot. As Moe himself put it, "It's PoMo. You know,
PostModern... wierd for the sake of being wierd."
This type of misuse is really quite unfortunate, imo. If the current trend
of PopCulturePostModernism continues, the true sense of PoMo will lose its
meaning and credibility. The very essence of PostModernism as a tool and
skill for reading art will be lost.
On another note, do you feel that this "re-modernism" rather than "post-
modernism" fits with the ideas of Jean Baudrillard and his Simulacrum?
Just some thoughts...
Ben.
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