As I Embark on this Journey to the Life of a Critic

Being called a critic has never ever sounded any good to me. Ehn! Me? God forbid. I used to think it's a bad title (it can be anyway). I've never imagined that I'd be glad to be called a critic.

The gist is the company I currently work with, is creating platforms for creative minds to connect and build a community. A community where societal issues are raised and constructive criticisms are appreciated. And I've been promoted (in some way) to be a part of the project.

It's been barely a month since I started writing articles on news and entertainment for uche and moyo. But this morning, as the project supervisor said, "I need you to be controversial. Criticize the news. Be a critic." It felt like I'd been told to drink a bottle of kunu (how I detest the taste of kunu).

I wasn't comfortable about the word, "critic" for some reasons I don't even know. I had to ask Mr. Google what being a critic means. I should know that my boss and supervisor wouldn't want to intentionally kill my dream of being a voice. *covers face*

According to Wikipedia, a critic is a professional who communicates his or her opinions and assessments of various forms of creative work such as art, literature, music, cinema, theatre, fashion, architecture and food. Critical thinking may be negative, balanced or positive.

I wish I could write everything I researched about what being a critic means right here and now. But it's a ve....ry long epistle. lol.

The underlined words above have had me going on since I found them attached to the word "critic".

Well, I know I'm creative. I can think up new ideas and all but I've never seen myself as being very opinionated. Most times, I feel I make my decisions based on what someone else feels or says. I'm emotional (actually every woman is).

But you know what? You can't be dull to be a critic. You got to think, think and think again. It's more like thinking for thinkers. You assess, review and judge another creative work. That's huge!

A professional critic is paid to produce his/her opinions for print, radio, television and internet companies. An established critic can play a powerful role as public arbiter. A voice of the community. And I'm becoming a fine one. I like where I'm going. *smiles*

"I need you to be controversial. Criticize the news. Be a critic"

This is another new experience for me. It looks challenging, but I know it'll be interesting. I'm excited about this journey to the life of a critic. Just in case I don't find my way back on here as often I'd love to, I'd be on Uche and Moyo. *kisses*

"You only get one life, make the most of it. Be true to yourself. Follow the path that you find inspiring and express yourself in a way that you find satisfying. Only you can tell your story."

Thanks for reading.

You might also check out my first 6 months on the job and the day I was afraid of who I saw in the mirror.

Written by Nwamaka Ajaegbu
Twitter: @Amakamedia
Email: amakamedia@gmail.com