In “How the Whitest Singer of the Seventies…”, Karen Tongson presents how her own life intersected with both the success and misfortune of the lives and work of the 1970s singing duo the Carpenters. In doing so, she works to convince why drummer/singer Karen Carpenter is significant in particular; not just to Tongson’s life, but how her work and music should be appraised for the value it brings to both popular music and the relatability to its audience–in other words, why she “matters.” Likewise, in Jonathan Lethem’s essay “Alone at the Movies,” Lethem shows how a fixation on the film Star Wars proved to be surprisingly important as he experienced a difficult time in his life.
Since “matters” is a subjective idea, the word carries an important amount of power when an argument is made that something “matters,” in some way, to everyone. What “matters” to you–in other words, what element of pop culture do you feel is worth valuing, presenting as worthwhile, and has helped guide you through the twists and turns of your own life?
In a 4-5 page paper (approximately 1200 words), please choose a relic from popular culture–a musician/type of music, film, book, television show, article of fashion, or pastime–that resonates strongly with you. In your essay, please address why this work or activity “matters”–not just to you personally, but in the culture that surrounds you.
When it comes to exploring the subject that “matters” to you, please include the following:
How did you discover your topic? Were there any early instances of family or friends that introduced you to the topic?
What drew you to the topic? Feel free to draw not just on the elements of the subject, but also what it was about your own life at the time that made the topic so appealing.
What does the topic say about your life, now and at the time? How do big elements of your life intersect with that of your interest?
What are some objections or criticisms that your topic has faced, either from people you know or published critics? What do these criticisms say about your interest in your topic, as well as the general cultural perception your topic may face?
What larger cultural resonance does this topic have that extends beyond yourself?
Has your relationship to the subject changed over time? Where do you see it going in the future?
For one or two of these points, please include three additional sources that demonstrate quality research practices.
Your paper should include a complete and correct MLA Works Cited page, as formatting according to MLA 8 guidelines.
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