Funny Weather: Art in an Emergency

Reviewers widely praise Olivia Laing's writing style, describing it as personal, intimate, engaging, and intelligent, making even complex topics accessible. Many found her prose readable, natural, and poetic, appreciating her thoughtful approach to art and culture. The book is celebrated for offering glimpses into the lives of a diverse array of 20th-century artists, writers, and musicians, often introducing readers to figures they had not encountered before and sparking curiosity for further exploration. Laing's exploration of art as a vital force for resistance and repair in turbulent times resonated strongly with many, who found her arguments for art's capacity to shape ethical landscapes, foster empathy, and offer new perspectives to be powerfully optimistic and inspiring. The collection's cultural commentaries and its focus on queer art and experiences were particularly highlighted as offering protection and insight.

Despite the admiration for Laing's writing, a recurring criticism is the book's format as a collection of previously published articles, leading to a sense of disjointedness and a lack of thematic cohesion compared to her more focused works. Many reviewers felt the individual pieces were too short, often ending just as they were becoming deeply engaging, which resulted in some subjects feeling underdeveloped or superficial. This brevity was particularly frustrating for readers unfamiliar with the artists discussed, as it provided only "barebones" information without sufficient context or depth. Some also noted a degree of repetition across essays regarding certain political and social themes. Additionally, the absence of illustrations was a drawback for a book discussing visual art, making it challenging for readers to fully appreciate the works being described without external research.

Overall, "Funny Weather: Art in an Emergency" is a mixed collection, often dependent on reader expectations. While some found it a magnificent and inspiring read, others experienced disappointment due to its episodic nature. The book shines through Laing's distinctive writing voice and its passionate advocacy for art's enduring relevance. It is best suited for readers who appreciate essay collections that can be dipped into, fans of Olivia Laing's previous works, and those interested in a broad exploration of art, artists, and culture. Readers seeking a thoughtful, politically engaged, and optimistic perspective on how art can provide solace and foster resistance in challenging eras will likely find much to enjoy, especially if they are open to doing their own "homework" to delve deeper into the fascinating subjects Laing introduces. However, those looking for a cohesive, single-themed deep dive or extensive analysis of specific artists might find it less fulfilling.