Famous American Critics & Connoisseurs

Roger Ebert was a renowned American film critic, historian, journalist, essayist, screenwriter, and author. He was known for his intimate, Midwestern writing style and critical views influenced by populism and humanism. Ebert co-wrote the film "Beyond the Valley of the Dolls" early in his career and later gained fame for co-hosting nationally televised film review shows with Gene Siskel, popularizing the phrase "two thumbs up." Despite battling cancer in the 2000s, Ebert continued writing prolifically until his death in 2013, leaving behind a lasting legacy in the world of film criticism.

George Ames Plimpton was an American writer known for his sports writing and as the founding editor of The Paris Review. He pioneered "participatory journalism" by actively engaging in various professional endeavors, such as playing sports, acting in films, performing comedy, and playing music with the New York Philharmonic Orchestra. His witty and elegant prose chronicled his humorous and often hapless adventures in these different fields, making him a beloved figure in the literary and cultural world.

Kurt Loder is a prominent American entertainment critic, author, and television personality with a distinguished career. Best recognized for his role at MTV News since the 1980s, he has also served as an editor at Rolling Stone, contributing to various esteemed publications such as Reason, Esquire, Details, New York, and Time. Loder has made cameo appearances in several films and TV series and currently hosts the SiriusXM radio show True Stories, showcasing his vast expertise in the entertainment industry.

Dick Gregory was a renowned American comedian, actor, writer, activist, and social critic. He gained fame for his fearless and humorous approach to addressing bigotry and racism, particularly in the southern United States. In the 1960s, Gregory transitioned into political activism, protesting against the Vietnam War, advocating for racial equality, and supporting animal rights. He faced arrests and hunger strikes for his beliefs. Later in his career, Gregory became a respected speaker, author, and influential figure in social justice movements.

Henry Louis Gates Jr. is a prominent American literary critic, professor, historian, and filmmaker. He holds the prestigious position of Alphonse Fletcher University Professor and is the director of the Hutchins Center for African and African American Research at Harvard University. Gates is also a trustee of the Gilder Lehrman Institute of American History. He is known for rediscovering the earliest known African-American novels and for his extensive publications on the recognition of African-American literature within the Western canon. As a television host, Gates presents the series Finding Your Roots on PBS, which delves into the genealogy and histories of notable figures.

Anne Tyler is an accomplished American novelist, short story writer, and literary critic known for her richly developed characters and meticulous attention to detail in her writing. With twenty-four novels to her name, she has been recognized with prestigious awards such as the Pulitzer Prize for Fiction and the National Book Critics Circle Award. Her work has been praised for its artful and astute language, drawing comparisons to literary greats like John Updike, Jane Austen, and Eudora Welty. Tyler's contributions to literature have solidified her reputation as a masterful storyteller.

Leonard Maltin is an accomplished American film critic, historian, and author renowned for his influential work in the film industry. He gained fame through his widely acclaimed publication, Leonard Maltin's Movie Guide, and his tenure as a film critic on Entertainment Tonight. Maltin's expertise extends to teaching at USC School of Cinematic Arts, hosting the podcast Maltin on Movies, and serving as President of the Los Angeles Film Critics Association. His contributions include writing books on animation, film history, hosting specials, and providing film commentary. Maltin's career highlights also feature the release of his memoir and receiving prestigious awards like the Robert Osborne Award.

John Henry Hammond Jr. was a prominent American record producer, civil rights activist, and music critic who made significant contributions to 20th-century popular music. He played a pivotal role as a talent scout in nurturing and promoting the careers of numerous legendary musicians across various genres, including Bob Dylan, Bruce Springsteen, Billie Holiday, Count Basie, Aretha Franklin, and many more. Hammond's influence extended to the revival of delta blues artist Robert Johnson's music, solidifying his reputation as one of the most influential figures in the music industry.

James Rufus Agee was a multifaceted American writer known for his work as a novelist, journalist, poet, screenwriter, and film critic. In the 1940s, he gained prominence as one of the most influential film critics in the United States while writing for Time magazine. His accomplishments include winning a posthumous Pulitzer Prize for his autobiographical novel, A Death in the Family. Agee is also recognized for co-writing the book Let Us Now Praise Famous Men and for his screenwriting contributions to the film classics The African Queen and The Night of the Hunter.

Harvey Pekar was an influential American underground comic book writer, music critic, and media personality known for his autobiographical American Splendor comic series. He played a significant role in changing perceptions of graphic novels and autobiographical comic narratives. Pekar's work focused on everyday struggles and the human experience, portraying themes such as survival, work, relationships, and creativity. His contributions earned him prestigious awards, including the Inkpot Award, American Book Award, Harvey Award, and a posthumous induction into the Eisner Award Hall of Fame.

Charles John Klosterman is an American author and essayist known for his focus on American popular culture. He has contributed as a columnist for Esquire and ESPN.com, and also wrote "The Ethicist" column for The New York Times Magazine. With a total of twelve books to his credit, including novels and essay collections such as Sex, Drugs, and Cocoa Puffs: A Low Culture Manifesto, Klosterman's work has garnered critical acclaim. In 2002, he received the ASCAP Deems Taylor award for music criticism.

André Aciman is an Italian-American writer and distinguished professor at the Graduate Center of the City University of New York. He has taught creative writing at New York University, French literature at Princeton University and Bard College, and was a Visiting Distinguished Writer at Wesleyan University. Aciman is the author of several novels, including the award-winning "Call Me by Your Name," which was adapted into a film. He has also written a memoir titled "Out of Egypt," which won a Whiting Award. Aciman has expressed that his favorite book is the novel "Eight White Nights."

Rex Taylor Reed is an American film critic, journalist, and media personality known for his career in New York City during the 1960s. He has contributed to various newspapers and magazines, focusing on popular culture, art, and celebrities. Reed has made a name for himself through regular television appearances and sporadic acting roles in films over the 1970s and 1980s. As a prominent writer for The New York Observer, he is recognized for his candid writing style, contrarian tastes, and occasional controversy due to factual inaccuracies and critical comments about actors.

William Dean Howells was an influential figure in American literature, known for his work as a realist novelist, literary critic, and playwright. He gained prominence as the editor of The Atlantic Monthly and was recognized for his novels such as The Rise of Silas Lapham and A Traveler from Altruria. Howells' writing often explored social issues and he was celebrated for his Christmas story "Christmas Every Day," which was later adapted into a film. His contributions earned him the title "The Dean of American Letters."

George Steiner was a prominent literary critic, essayist, philosopher, novelist, and educator who extensively explored the interplay between language, literature, and society. He delved into the profound impact of the Holocaust on culture and humanity. Throughout his career, Steiner held prestigious academic positions at institutions such as the University of Geneva, University of Oxford, Harvard University, and Churchill College, Cambridge. Renowned for his captivating lectures and insightful writings, he was regarded as a distinguished figure in the literary world, with admirers praising his intellectual depth and visionary perspectives.

Arthur Meier Schlesinger Jr. was an American historian, social critic, and public intellectual known for his extensive work in exploring the history of 20th-century American liberalism. He focused on key leaders such as Harry S. Truman, Franklin D. Roosevelt, John F. Kennedy, and Robert F. Kennedy. Schlesinger served as a primary speechwriter and adviser to Democratic presidential nominee Adlai Stevenson II, as well as a special assistant and "court historian" to President Kennedy. He won the Pulitzer Prize for Biography or Autobiography for his detailed account of the Kennedy administration titled A Thousand Days. Schlesinger actively supported Senator Robert F. Kennedy's presidential campaign and later wrote a popular biography about him. He also popularized the term "imperial presidency" during the Nixon administration in his book, The Imperial Presidency.

Harry Jay Knowles is an American former film critic and writer who gained recognition for his website Ain't It Cool News (AICN). He was a member of the Austin Film Critics Association until his removal in September 2017 due to allegations of sexual assault. Knowles' contributions to film criticism and coverage through AICN established him as a prominent figure in the industry. Despite the controversy surrounding his departure from the film association, his impact on film culture and discourse remains a significant part of his professional legacy.

Clement Greenberg was an influential American essayist and art critic, often writing under the pseudonym K. Hardesh. He was closely linked with American modern art of the mid-20th century and known as a formalist aesthetician. Greenberg is most recognized for his close relationship with the abstract expressionism movement and his championing of artists like Jackson Pollock. Through his writings and critiques, he played a significant role in shaping the understanding and appreciation of modern art during his time, leaving a lasting impact on the art world.

Vincent Canby was a prominent American film and theatre critic known for his work at The New York Times. He served as the chief film critic from 1969 to the early 1990s, where he reviewed over a thousand films. Later, he became the chief theatre critic at the same publication from 1994 until his passing in 2000. Throughout his career, Canby's insightful reviews and critiques had a significant influence on the film and theatre industries, establishing him as a respected and influential figure in the world of arts criticism.

Lionel Trilling was a prominent American literary critic, short story writer, essayist, and teacher known for his significant contributions to literary criticism in the 20th century. His work focused on analyzing the cultural, social, and political aspects of literature, establishing him as a leading figure in the field. As a member of the New York Intellectuals and a contributor to the Partisan Review, Trilling played a key role in shaping intellectual discourse and literary criticism during his career.

Janet R. Maslin is an American journalist renowned for her work as a film and literary critic at The New York Times. She held the position of Times film critic for over two decades before transitioning to become a book critic for another fifteen years. In addition to her critical writing, Maslin played a pivotal role in establishing the Jacob Burns Film Center in Pleasantville, New York, where she currently serves as the president of its board of directors.

Nathan Irving Hentoff was a prominent American historian, novelist, and music critic known for his work in jazz and country music. He was a syndicated columnist for United Media and wrote for various publications including The Village Voice, The Wall Street Journal, and The New Yorker. Hentoff was a senior fellow at the Cato Institute and wrote extensively on First Amendment issues, particularly advocating for press freedom. His columns appeared in a range of publications, showcasing his diverse expertise and passion for music and civil liberties.

Frank O'Hara was an influential American writer, poet, and art critic known for his prominent role in New York City's art world. He served as a curator at the Museum of Modern Art and was a key figure in the New York School, a group inspired by various art movements. O'Hara's poetry is characterized by its personal and diary-like tone, often incorporating elements of jazz, surrealism, and contemporary culture. His work aimed to capture the immediacy of life and foster a connection between the poet and the reader.

Paul Fussell Jr. was an American cultural and literary historian, author, and university professor known for his writings on a wide range of topics, from eighteenth-century English literature to America's class system. He served in the 103rd Infantry Division during World War II and was wounded in France. Fussell held faculty positions at Rutgers University and the University of Pennsylvania where he extensively wrote about the realities of World War I and II, criticizing the romanticized portrayals of war and highlighting the stark contrast with its actual brutality.

Robert Christgau is an esteemed American music journalist and essayist known for his influential music criticism. He pioneered professional rock criticism in the late 1960s and championed genres like hip hop and riot grrrl. Christgau's reviews, characterized by terse, letter-graded capsule album assessments and caustic wit, were featured in The Village Voice for 37 years. He has contributed to various publications, including Esquire and Rolling Stone. Christgau continues to write reviews and essays, with a focus on song-oriented music and formal rigor.

Tom Verlaine was an influential figure in the American rock music scene, renowned for his role as the frontman of the iconic band Television. As a singer, guitarist, and songwriter, Verlaine showcased a unique blend of artistic talent and musical innovation. His contributions to the band helped shape the sound of New York City rock in the 1970s and beyond. Verlaine's distinctive style and poetic lyrics resonated with fans and critics alike, solidifying his legacy as a key figure in the history of rock music.

Joel Siegel was a prominent American film critic known for his work on the ABC morning news show Good Morning America for over 25 years. In addition to his successful career in television, he was the recipient of multiple Emmy Awards, recognizing his exceptional talent and contributions to the field of film critique. Siegel also showcased his versatility by working as a radio disc jockey and excelling as an advertising copywriter, further demonstrating his passion for media and entertainment.

John Irving Bloom, known as Joe Bob Briggs, is a multifaceted American professional in the entertainment industry. He has excelled as a syndicated film critic, writer, actor, comic performer, and horror host. With a notable career spanning decades, he is best known for his hosting roles on popular television programs such as Joe Bob's Drive-in Theater, MonsterVision, and The Last Drive-in with Joe Bob Briggs. His contributions to the horror genre have been recognized through prestigious awards and inductions into halls of fame.

Mark Van Doren was a renowned American poet, writer, and critic known for his influential career as a scholar and professor of English at Columbia University for nearly four decades. He inspired a generation of writers and thinkers, including Thomas Merton, Robert Lax, John Berryman, Whittaker Chambers, Allen Ginsberg, and Jack Kerouac. Van Doren's professional contributions included serving as literary editor of The Nation, publishing critical studies on notable figures like Shakespeare and Nathaniel Hawthorne, and winning the Pulitzer Prize for Poetry in 1940. His impact on Columbia University's literary community is still felt today through prestigious teaching accolades named in his honor.

Armond Allen White is an American film and music critic known for his work with publications such as National Review, Out, CityArts, New York Press, and The City Sun. He has also contributed to Film Comment, Variety, The Nation, The New York Times, Slate, Columbia Journalism Review, and First Things. White is recognized for his controversial and contrarian reviews, often taking unconventional stances in film criticism. As an African-American, gay, conservative critic, he has gained attention for being a minority in multiple aspects within his profession.

Stanley Eugene Fish is a prominent American literary theorist, legal scholar, author, and public intellectual. He currently holds the position of Floersheimer Distinguished Visiting Professor of Law at Yeshiva University's Benjamin N. Cardozo School of Law in New York City. With a background in anti-foundationalism, he is associated with postmodernism and is known for his influence on reader-response theory. Throughout his career, Fish has taught at various prestigious institutions including the University of California, Berkeley, Johns Hopkins University, Yale Law School, and Columbia University.

John Henry Lahr is an esteemed American theater critic and writer known for his significant contributions to the field. He served as the senior drama critic and staff writer at The New Yorker from 1992 to 2013. Lahr has authored over twenty books focusing on various aspects of theater, showcasing his expertise and passion for the art form. Recognized as one of the preeminent biographers of contemporary times, Lahr's work continues to resonate with audiences and fellow scholars alike.

Ellen Willis was a prominent figure in American journalism, known for her work as a left-wing political essayist, activist, feminist, and pop music critic. She made significant contributions to the field through her insightful and thought-provoking writing. Willis gained recognition for her critical analysis and commentary on various social and cultural issues. Her impactful career was exemplified by the posthumous accolades she received, including the National Book Critics Circle Award for Criticism for her collection of essays, "The Essential Ellen Willis."

Wesley Morris is an accomplished American film critic and podcast host with a rich professional background. He currently serves as the critic-at-large for The New York Times and co-hosts the popular podcast Still Processing. Morris has previously contributed to The Boston Globe and Grantland. He is a distinguished Pulitzer Prize winner, having received the award in both 2012 and 2021 for his exceptional work in criticism, particularly in coverage of race relations in the United States. Morris stands out as the only writer to have won the Pulitzer Prize for Criticism multiple times.

Ruth Reichl is a prominent American chef, food writer, and editor with a diverse and accomplished professional background. With extensive experience as a food critic for publications such as the Los Angeles Times and The New York Times, she has also authored cookbooks, memoirs, and a novel. Reichl's involvement in television includes co-producing PBS's Gourmet's Diary of a Foodie and hosting Gourmet's Adventures With Ruth. She has been recognized for her contributions to the culinary world with six James Beard Foundation Awards.

James Benjamin Blish was an influential American science fiction and fantasy writer known for his Cities in Flight novels and Star Trek novelizations co-written with his wife. He achieved critical acclaim with his novel A Case of Conscience, which won the prestigious Hugo Award. Blish also made significant contributions to the genre by coining the term "gas giant" to describe large planetary bodies. Under various pen names, including William Atheling Jr., he wrote literary criticism of science fiction and published stories in prominent magazines like Super Science Stories and Amazing Stories.

Scott Ritter is a former US Marine Corps intelligence officer and UN weapons inspector, known for his role in overseeing the disarmament of weapons of mass destruction in Iraq. He resigned from UNSCOM in protest and later became a vocal critic of the Iraq War and US foreign policy in the Middle East. Ritter has contributed to Russian state media outlets and supported Russia during the 2022 invasion of Ukraine. He is also a member of Veteran Intelligence Professionals for Sanity and has faced challenges with US authorities regarding travel to Russia.

David Fricke is a prominent American music journalist known for his work as the senior editor at Rolling Stone magazine. With a focus on rock music, he has been a key figure in the industry for over 40 years. Fricke's career at Rolling Stone includes serving as the music editor in the 1990s before transitioning to his current role. His insightful writing and extensive knowledge have solidified his reputation as one of the most respected names in rock journalism.

Elizabeth Hardwick was a prominent American literary figure known for her work as a critic, novelist, and short story writer. She made significant contributions to the literary world through her insightful critiques, engaging novels, and compelling short stories. Hardwick's writing often explored complex themes and offered deep insights into human nature and relationships. Her work was highly regarded by peers and readers alike, establishing her as a respected and influential voice in the world of literature.

Dave Marsh is an influential American music critic, radio talk show host, and writer. He played a key role as an early editor of Creem magazine and has contributed to esteemed publications including Newsday, The Village Voice, and Rolling Stone. With a focus on rock music, Marsh has authored multiple books delving into the world of music and musicians. Additionally, he serves on the committee of the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, showcasing his deep involvement and expertise within the music industry.

Mimi Gardner Gates is an accomplished American art historian known for her role as the former director of the Seattle Art Museum. She has made significant contributions to the art world through her leadership and expertise in curating exhibitions and expanding the museum's collection. Gates is recognized for her innovative approaches to showcasing art and fostering a deeper understanding and appreciation of diverse artistic expressions. Her career highlights include spearheading impactful initiatives and collaborations that have enriched the cultural landscape of the Seattle art scene.

Donald Hall Jr. was a prominent American poet, writer, editor, and literary critic known for his diverse body of work spanning various genres such as children's literature, biography, memoir, essays, and poetry. He served as the first poetry editor of The Paris Review and was appointed as the Library of Congress's 14th Poet Laureate Consultant in Poetry. Hall's career included teaching positions at prestigious institutions like Stanford University, Bennington College, and the University of Michigan, where he made significant contributions to the study and practice of writing.

Arthur Coleman Danto was a prominent American art critic, philosopher, and Columbia University professor. He gained recognition for his extensive contributions to philosophical aesthetics, philosophy of history, and the philosophy of action. Danto's diverse interests encompassed areas such as thought, feeling, philosophy of art, theories of representation, philosophical psychology, Hegel's aesthetics, and the philosophies of Friedrich Nietzsche and Jean-Paul Sartre. He was notably affiliated with The Nation as a long-time art critic and made significant impacts across various academic fields.

Cleanth Brooks was an influential American literary critic and professor known for his significant contributions to New Criticism in the mid-20th century. He revolutionized the teaching of poetry in American higher education through works like The Well Wrought Urn and Modern Poetry and the Tradition. Brooks emphasized ambiguity and paradox in understanding poetry, shaping formalist criticism and close reading principles. Furthermore, he was a prominent critic of Southern literature, particularly renowned for his writings on William Faulkner, and a co-founder of The Southern Review journal with Robert Penn Warren.

Rufus Wilmot Griswold was an American anthologist, editor, poet, and critic known for his significant contributions to American literature. He compiled comprehensive anthologies of American poetry, showcasing the best works of his time. Despite his literary achievements, he faced criticism for his abrasive character and controversial actions, such as infringing on copyright laws. His rivalry with Edgar Allan Poe and subsequent campaign to tarnish Poe's reputation overshadowed his literary endeavors. Griswold advocated for the inclusion of American poetry in school curricula and supported copyright legislation, despite his own questionable practices.

E.D. Hirsch, Jr. is an American educator, literary critic, and theorist of education. He is best known for his influential book "Cultural Literacy," which promoted the importance of a shared knowledge base for education. Hirsch founded the Core Knowledge Foundation, which developed detailed curriculum guidelines for grades Pre-K through 8. He also authored works on English literature and interpretation theory, emphasizing intentionalism in understanding authors' meanings. Hirsch's contributions have sparked debates and influenced educational standards, making him a notable figure in the field of education.

Dwight Macdonald was a prominent American writer, critic, philosopher, and activist known for his contributions to various influential publications. He was a key figure among the New York Intellectuals and served as the editor of Partisan Review for six years. Macdonald's insightful and critical writing also appeared in Time, The New Yorker, The New York Review of Books, and Politics, a journal he founded in 1944. His work reflected a deep engagement with leftist politics and intellectual discourse.

Greil Marcus is an influential American author, music journalist, and cultural critic known for his scholarly and literary essays on rock music within the context of culture and politics. He has garnered recognition for his unique ability to connect music with broader societal issues, offering insightful perspectives on the interplay between art and politics. Marcus' work highlights the significance of music as a reflection of cultural dynamics and as a platform for social commentary, establishing him as a significant figure in the realm of music criticism and cultural analysis.

Jerry Saltz is an acclaimed American art critic known for his insightful critiques and contributions to the field. He has held prominent roles as senior art critic for publications such as New York magazine and The Village Voice, earning the Pulitzer Prize for Criticism in 2018. With a wealth of experience, Saltz has also served as a visiting critic at prestigious institutions like School of Visual Arts, Columbia University, and Yale University. His expertise is further demonstrated through advisory roles for significant art events like the 1995 Whitney Biennial and receiving multiple honorary doctorates.

Andrew Sarris was an influential American film critic known for championing the auteur theory of film criticism. He rose to prominence as a leading advocate for recognizing directors as the primary creative force behind films. Sarris's work helped elevate the status of certain filmmakers and shaped the way audiences and critics view cinema. Through his writings and reviews, he made significant contributions to film criticism and analysis, leaving a lasting impact on the understanding and appreciation of movies.

James Berardinelli is an American film critic known for his reviews published on his blog ReelViews. He has been approved as a critic by the aggregator Rotten Tomatoes and has released two collections of movie reviews on DVD and video. In addition to his work as a film critic, Berardinelli is also a fantasy novelist, having published a trilogy titled The Last Whisper of the Gods between 2015 and 2016. His diverse professional pursuits highlight his passion for both film criticism and creative writing within the fantasy genre.

Bosley Crowther Jr. was an American journalist, writer, and film critic known for his influential 27-year tenure at The New York Times. His critiques, while impactful in shaping the careers of actors, directors, and screenwriters, were sometimes criticized for being overly harsh. Crowther was a notable advocate for foreign-language cinema during the 1950s and 1960s, particularly championing the works of filmmakers such as Roberto Rossellini, Vittorio De Sica, Ingmar Bergman, and Federico Fellini.

Olga Samaroff was a highly acclaimed American pianist, music critic, and influential teacher. She studied with notable musicians such as Élie-Miriam Delaborde, son of Charles-Valentin Alkan, and later became known for her exceptional performances and insightful critiques. Samaroff's career was further distinguished by her marriage to the renowned conductor Leopold Stokowski. She was a significant figure in the Philadelphia Art Alliance and left a lasting impact on the world of classical music through her talents as a performer and educator.

Jonathan Rosenbaum is a prominent American film critic and author known for his work at The Chicago Reader as head film critic from 1987 to 2008. He has published and edited several books on cinema and his contributions have been featured in esteemed film publications such as Cahiers du cinéma and Film Comment. Renowned French New Wave director Jean-Luc Godard hailed Rosenbaum as one of the best film critics in the United States, comparing him to iconic figures like James Agee and André Bazin.

Kenneth Turan is an American retired film critic, author, and lecturer in the Master of Professional Writing Program at the University of Southern California. He served as a film critic for the Los Angeles Times for nearly three decades, from 1991 to 2020. Turan was highly regarded in the industry, being referred to as "arguably the most widely read film critic in the town most associated with the making of movies" by The Hollywood Reporter. His expertise and insights have made him a prominent figure in the world of film criticism.

M. H. Abrams, an American literary critic, made significant contributions to the study of romanticism through his renowned work, The Mirror and the Lamp. Serving as the editor of The Norton Anthology of English Literature, he played a pivotal role in establishing it as a fundamental text for undergraduate survey courses nationwide. Abrams's influence extended to shaping literary canon formation, establishing him as a key figure in the field of literary criticism and education.

Fredric Jameson is a renowned American literary critic, philosopher, and Marxist political theorist known for his analysis of contemporary cultural trends, particularly postmodernity and capitalism. His influential works, including "Postmodernism, or, The Cultural Logic of Late Capitalism" and "The Political Unconscious," have shaped critical discourse. Jameson holds prestigious academic positions at Duke University and has received accolades such as the Modern Language Association Award for Lifetime Scholarly Achievement. His professional life is marked by a deep commitment to Comparative Literature, Romance Studies, and Critical Theory.

Louis Untermeyer was a prominent American poet, anthologist, critic, and editor. His professional life was marked by significant contributions to the world of literature. In 1961, he was appointed as the fourteenth Consultant in Poetry to the Library of Congress, showcasing his expertise and influence in the literary community. Untermeyer's work as an editor and anthologist helped shape the American literary landscape, while his critical insights provided valuable perspectives on numerous works of poetry.

Randall Jarrell was a prominent American literary figure known for his work as a poet, literary critic, children's author, essayist, and novelist. He served as the 11th Consultant in Poetry to the Library of Congress, and his legacy includes being recognized with prestigious honors such as a Guggenheim Fellowship, a grant from the National Institute of Arts and Letters, and the National Book Award for Poetry. Jarrell's contributions to American literature continue to be celebrated for their depth, insight, and lasting impact.

Craig Claiborne was a prominent figure in American gastronomy and food writing. As a restaurant critic and food journalist for The New York Times, he made significant contributions to the culinary world. Claiborne authored multiple cookbooks and an autobiography, showcasing his expertise and passion for food. Throughout his career, he left a lasting impact on the culinary landscape of the United States, influencing both aspiring chefs and food enthusiasts with his insights and writings.

Pauline Kael was an influential American film critic known for her witty, opinionated, and sharply focused reviews during her tenure at The New Yorker from 1968 to 1991. Her critiques often diverged from those of her peers, making her a standout figure in film criticism. Regarded as one of the most impactful critics of her time, Kael was praised for her personal and unconventional approach to analyzing films, leaving a lasting mark on the industry and redefining the art of film criticism.

Isabella Stewart Gardner was an influential American art collector, philanthropist, and patron of the arts. She founded the Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum in Boston, showcasing her passion for art and culture. Known for her energetic intellectual curiosity and love of travel, Gardner cultivated relationships with prominent artists and writers of her time. Her unconventional behavior and stylish tastes made her a notable figure in Boston society, earning her various nicknames. Gardner's eccentricities, such as her memorable appearance at a formal concert, left a lasting impact on those around her.

John Crowe Ransom was a renowned American educator, scholar, literary critic, poet, essayist, and editor. As a key figure in the New Criticism school of literary criticism, he made significant contributions to the field. Serving as a faculty member at Kenyon College, he played a pivotal role as the founding editor of the esteemed Kenyon Review. Ransom was highly regarded for his teaching prowess and mentorship of numerous successful students. Additionally, he achieved accolades for his poetic and essayistic works, earning recognition as a prize-winning writer and a nominee for the prestigious Nobel Prize in Literature.

Laura Riding was a versatile American writer known for her contributions to poetry, criticism, fiction, and essays. Throughout her career, she produced a significant body of work that showcased her talent and intellectual depth. Riding's poetic style was characterized by its innovative approach and philosophical themes, earning her critical acclaim. As a respected critic, she offered valuable insights into literature and language. Additionally, her work as a novelist and short story writer further demonstrated her storytelling abilities and literary prowess.

Kathryn Schulz is an accomplished American journalist and author known for her work at The New Yorker. In 2016, she was honored with the Pulitzer Prize for Feature Writing for her insightful article highlighting the potential threat of a major earthquake and tsunami in the Pacific Northwest. Her dedication to journalism was further recognized in 2023 when she received the Lambda Literary Award for Lesbian Memoir or Biography. Schulz's impactful writing and investigative skills have solidified her reputation as a respected figure in the world of journalism.

Michael David Sorkin was an influential American architectural and urban critic, designer, and educator known for his provocative and insightful commentary on contemporary culture and urban design. He gained recognition as a critic for the Village Voice in New York City before transitioning to teaching at esteemed universities worldwide. Sorkin also ran his own design firm, founded a nonprofit book press, and led the urban design program at the City College of New York. His contributions to the field were cut short by his untimely passing during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Richard E. Roeper is an American columnist and film critic known for his work at the Chicago Sun-Times. He gained widespread recognition as the co-host of the television show At the Movies alongside Roger Ebert, following Gene Siskel. Roeper continued to showcase his expertise in film criticism by co-hosting The Roe and Roeper Show with Roe Conn on WLS-AM. Additionally, he expanded his television presence as the host of the morning show Good Day Chicago on FOX 32.

Frank Bruni is an accomplished American journalist, known for his work with The New York Times since 1995. Over the years, he has taken on various roles, including chief restaurant critic and op-ed columnist. In addition to his work at The Times, Bruni is a Professor of the Practice of Journalism and Public Policy at Duke University. He is also a bestselling author, with five books to his name covering topics such as political dysfunction, personal struggles with overeating, college admissions, and George W. Bush.

A. O. Scott is an American journalist and cultural critic renowned for his film and literary criticism. He kickstarted his career at The New York Review of Books, Variety, and Slate before joining The New York Times in 2000 as a film critic. By 2004, he ascended to the role of chief film critic, which he co-held with Manohla Dargis. In 2023, he transitioned to The New York Times Book Review, showcasing his versatility and expertise in critiquing various forms of media.

Marcia Davenport was an accomplished American writer and music critic. She gained recognition for her groundbreaking 1932 biography of composer Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart, which was the first American published biography of the legendary musician. Davenport's writing talent extended to novels as well, with notable works such as The Valley of Decision and East Side, West Side, both of which were adapted into successful films. Her work showcased her deep understanding of music and storytelling, establishing her as a prominent figure in the literary and music worlds.

Frederick R. Koch was known for his career as an American collector and philanthropist. He was involved in various charitable endeavors and was recognized for his contributions to the arts and cultural institutions. Koch's passion for collecting art and rare books was evident throughout his professional life, and he played a significant role in supporting cultural preservation and education. Additionally, he was part of a prominent family known for their business achievements in the industrial sector.

Stephen Thomas Erlewine is an American music critic known for his work as a former senior editor at AllMusic. He has authored numerous artist biographies and record reviews for the platform and also works as a freelance writer, occasionally providing liner notes. Erlewine studied English at the University of Michigan and held editorial positions at The Michigan Daily. He has contributed to authoritative guides on blues and hip-hop music genres. His expertise and contributions have solidified his reputation in the music industry.

Edmund Wilson Jr. was a prominent American writer, literary critic, and journalist known for his significant contributions to 20th-century literary criticism. Starting as a journalist for Vanity Fair and The New Yorker, he later edited The New Republic and served as chief book critic for The New Yorker. Wilson was highly regarded for his groundbreaking works like Axel's Castle and was known for fearlessly exploring diverse topics beyond literature. He was also a successful author, with works such as I Thought of Daisy and Memoirs of Hecate County. Wilson's legacy includes his influential Library of America series and accolades such as two National Book Awards and the Presidential Medal of Freedom.

Charles Welles Rosen was a renowned American pianist and music writer known for his exceptional career as a concert pianist, his influential recordings, and his insightful writings on music. His book "The Classical Style" remains a significant contribution to music literature. Throughout his professional life, Rosen was highly respected for his expertise in interpreting classical music, both through his performances and his analytical writings. His legacy continues to inspire and educate musicians and music enthusiasts around the world.

Richard Blackwell was a multifaceted American figure in the fashion industry, known for his roles as a fashion critic, journalist, television and radio personality, artist, former child actor, and fashion designer. He gained fame for creating the "Ten Worst Dressed Women List" and also published the "Fabulous Fashion Independents" list and an annual Academy Awards fashion review. Blackwell authored two books: "Mr. Blackwell: 30 Years of Fashion Fiascos" and his autobiography, "From Rags to Bitches." He was partnered with Robert L. Spencer, who also served as his manager.