Positives Jed Perl's extensive knowledge of the mid-20th century New York art scene is widely praised, often described as PhD-level and unparalleled. The book offers incredibly detailed and vivid descriptions of the era, including the emergence of key gathering places like "The Club" and "Cedar Tavern," and profiling numerous influential artists and movements. Readers appreciate its thoroughness in depicting the social scene, the importance of the artwork, and the connections between NYC artists and broader art worlds. Many found it an engaging and entertaining account, rich with original research, new anecdotes, and insights that provide a fresh perspective on this pivotal period when New York ascended as a global art center, making it a valuable companion to other works and a great springboard for further reading.
Negatives Despite its strengths, several reviewers found the book to be dense, packed with excessive detail, and at times repetitive, making it a challenging read for some. Critics pointed out that the author can get lost in asides and that the narrative structure occasionally feels messy or arbitrary, with individual artist analyses sometimes lacking cohesion. Some readers found the writing style to be dry or verbose, mentioning specific stylistic quirks that detracted from the experience, and felt the interesting topic was not always conveyed in an engaging manner. Concerns were also raised about the author's perceived biases, particularly against certain art movements, and notable omissions of significant artists from the period. Additionally, the book's images are frequently cited as being small and exclusively in black and white, which can hinder the appreciation of the artwork discussed.
Conclusion Ultimately, many reviewers conclude that the book's strengths, particularly its depth of knowledge and unique insights, outweigh its structural and stylistic shortcomings. It is considered an essential read for art historians and serious art lovers seeking a comprehensive and deeply researched understanding of the mid-century New York art world. While not a quick read, those interested in the emergence of modern art in America and willing to delve into extensive detail will likely find it profoundly enriching. However, casual readers or those new to the subject might find its academic rigor and sometimes meandering narrative less accessible, suggesting it best suits those with a dedicated interest in the period and its key figures.
