Introduction

The question of why some perceive the USA as lacking in culture, despite being a monumental contributor to global culture through various forms such as movies, TV shows, music, and technology, is one that merits exploration. This article delves into understanding this paradox and dispels the notion that American culture is devoid of depth and significance.

Perception of American Culture

Perception of American Cultural Products

When foreigners view American cultural products, such as movies, TV shows, music, and books, they often encounter what is considered popular culture. Popular culture, especially in Europe, often holds a connotation of being less refined and sophisticated compared to classical or highbrow culture. This perception is partly shaped by the nature of these media, which tend to prioritize entertainment and mass appeal over artistic and literary merit.

For example, Hollywood is renowned for its blockbuster films and franchises, which, while immensely popular, are not always celebrated for their artistic or intellectual contributions. Critics in Europe and elsewhere often dismiss these as mere commercial ventures designed to make money rather than to foster cultural appreciation or artistic innovation.

The Divide Between High and Lowbrow Culture

Literary Divide

There is a stark contrast between highbrow and lowbrow culture in America. Literary works are often categorized based on their perceived artistic value. While novels by Stephen King, Clive Cussler, and Dean Koontz are immensely popular among their fan bases, critical opinion frequently deems them as “junk literature.” These works, rooted in certain genres, are not typically embraced by the literary establishment.

Conversely, artists such as Andy Warhol who created soup can paintings, are often hailed as significant contributors to art. This phenomenon extends to other cultural figures. Harold Bloom and S.T. Joshi, among other critics, have harshly criticized the work of Stephen King, suggesting a sense of literary snobbery.

Yet, it is a flawed and unhelpful attitude to dismiss all popular culture as lacking in depth. While not all popular fiction is of high literary value, it is inaccurate to generalize and claim that the entire spectrum of American culture fits this label. There are examples of popular works that can indeed be deeply moving and stylistically sophisticated, such as the works of Edgar Allan Poe, which have resonated with a broad audience in Europe.

Examples of American Cultural Influence

Edgar Allan Poe and European Influence

The works of Edgar Allan Poe, once scorned in America, have influenced countless authors and poets in Europe. Poe’s influence extends beyond America’s borders, significantly impacting literary and cultural landscapes in countries such as France. This resurgence of Poe’s work in Europe demonstrates the rich and enduring cultural contributions of American literature.

Classical American Authors

Authors such as James Fenimore Cooper, Washington Irving, Mark Twain, F. Scott Fitzgerald, and John Steinbeck are still celebrated in Europe for their significance in American literature. Their works, often regarded as classics, continue to influence readers and writers across the globe.

European Recognition of American Authors

Even figures like H.P. Lovecraft, who wrote in the pulps, have higher regard in Europe than in America. Lovecraft’s unique style and his exploration of the unknown and the supernatural have resonated with international audiences.

Jazz and Cultural Resonance

Jazz, a uniquely American art form, created by African Americans, is universally respected. In fact, rock music is often seen as a derivative relative of jazz, sharing similar origins and artistic sensibilities.

Conclusion

Ultimately, despite the widespread consumption and appreciation of American cultural products, the notion that the US lacks genuine culture is a misunderstanding. Both highbrow and lowbrow culture coexist within the American cultural tapestry, with a range of contributors and influences that enrich the global cultural landscape. Understanding and appreciating these diverse elements of American culture broadens our perspective on the true richness and depth of the American cultural heritage.