Bette Midler: 'Rap is poetry set to music. But to me it's like a jackhammer.'

Rap is poetry set to music. But to me it's like a jackhammer.

In her famous quote, "Rap is poetry set to music. But to me it's like a jackhammer," Bette Midler masterfully captures the essence of rap music and its impact on different individuals. On the surface, her statement straightforwardly implies that while rap embodies the qualities of poetry and music, it can also be overpowering or jarring. This quote holds significant meaning as it delves into the multifaceted nature of rap as an art form and the subjective experiences it evokes. However, by introducing an unexpected philosophical concept, we can delve deeper into the quote's implications and explore a fascinating dichotomy between artistic appreciation and personal preferences.Rap, as widely acknowledged, can be viewed as a form of poetry due to its intricate wordplay, metaphors, and lyrical storytelling. The rhythm and flow of rap music, combined with its deeply introspective or socially conscious themes, create a unique experience for listeners. Midler's assertion that rap is poetry acknowledges its artistic merit and its ability to convey powerful messages. It highlights the versatility of rap as a genre, embracing both contemporary musical innovation and the rich historical lineage of oral traditions and poetic expression.Furthermore, Midler's comparison of rap to a jackhammer reveals a divergent personal perspective. A jackhammer, in its essence, denotes an intense and relentless force, capable of significant impact but also potentially intrusive or unsettling. In likening rap music to a jackhammer, Midler may be expressing her personal tastes or preferences for a more subtle or gentle musical experience. This sentiment reflects the subjectivity of art appreciation, where individual interpretations and emotional responses differ greatly.Now, let us introduce the philosophical concept of aesthetic relativism to enrich our understanding of Midler's quote. Aesthetic relativism asserts that the beauty or artistic value of an artwork is not inherent but rather shaped by the individual's cultural background, personal experiences, and subjective perceptions. Applying this concept to Midler's quote, we can view her contrasting perspective on rap music as a manifestation of aesthetic relativism.Aesthetic relativism invites us to recognize that while Midler may perceive rap as a jackhammer, others may experience it as a symphony of expression. This concept fosters a broader outlook on diverse aesthetic tastes and reminds us that different individuals resonate with distinct forms of artistic expression. Just as one person may prefer the soothing melodies of classical music, another may find solace in the rhythmical intensity and raw social commentary of rap.In exploring the juxtaposition between Midler's acknowledgment of rap as poetic music and her personal comparison to a jackhammer, we gain insight into the intricacies of art appreciation. This quote unveils the dynamic and evolving nature of art forms, constantly adapting to accommodate an array of creative tastes. It encourages us to value diversity in artistic preferences and embrace the rich tapestry of musical expression that exists in the world.In conclusion, Bette Midler's quote, "Rap is poetry set to music. But to me it's like a jackhammer," encapsulates the multifaceted nature of rap as an art form and invites contemplation on subjective artistic preferences. By delving into the depths of this quote, we have explored the intrinsic poetic qualities of rap while acknowledging the divergence of individual experiences and tastes in appreciating art. Incorporating the concept of aesthetic relativism further enriches our understanding of this quote, emphasizing the importance of embracing diverse forms of artistic expression. Ultimately, the beauty of art lies in its capacity to evoke varied emotions and provoke contemplation, resonating differently with each beholder.