Here is a fundamental conflict in educated society: We are not supposed to value beauty so highly, and yet who can defend against its sheer power to move, its rhetorical force? Russell Smith beautyconflictdefend Change image and share on social
I dislike turtlenecks at the best of times, as they are always unflattering to the imperfect male physique, but when worn in combination with a v-neck sweater, they say 'Grandpa' louder than any other item of clothing. Russell Smith clthecombinationdislike share on social
Calls for the simplification of abstract or allusive art have always come from governments suspicious of artists themselves. This is why totalitarian regimes have always legislated some form of realism. Russell Smith abstractallusiveart share on social
No matter how fine your suit and your shoes, you will remind everyone that you are not yet a grownup man by wearing them with your old college knapsack, in its nasty, nylon glory. Russell Smith collegefineglory Change image and share on social
No surprise here: Pop music is by far the most conservative art form there is. Russell Smith artconservativeform Change image and share on social
Universities can teach maturity. They can teach teenagers how to be adults, and that means to function outside a clique or a tribe. Russell Smith adultcliquefunction Change image and share on social
Frosh-week songs are meant to be offensive because offensive is rebellious. Russell Smith froshmeanoffensive Change image and share on social
Yes, the hunky barista looks even more terrifically masculine with three days' growth on his chin. Guys under 50 mostly do. But when your beard is partly or largely grey, that stubble can just look a little unwashed. Sadly, when you're over 50, different rules apply. Russell Smith applybaristabeard share on social
There is actually no such thing as an Artist type. 'Artist' is just an economic designation, a box you tick on a form. We are all people, and we are all creative. Russell Smith artistboxcreative Change image and share on social
One of the qualities essential to writing exciting stories, whether for page or screen, is an ability to abandon one's morality. We simply cannot be good writers and good people. One must be able to access one's darkest self, one's venality and pettiness and murderousness. Russell Smith abandonabilityaccess share on social