The Consciousness of Fame

 Regan Ramsey

Hendricks 3A

"Owner of a Lonely Heart" Response

The Consciousness of Fame

(Word Count:250)

In “Owner of a Lonely Heart”, Chuck Klosterman’s writing style is personable and flowing, while still addressing a multitude of important topics. And, by jumping between his actual experience and interview with Taylor Swift and more theoretical discussions about how she consciously furthers her fame by combining her art and personal life, Klosterman keeps reader engaged. His topic- the rise and continued influence of the music star Taylor Swift- is a compelling, because even if you don’t listen to Swift you’ve heard of her. This integration of pop culture into his writings helps the reader to forge a more personal connection with Klosterman’s message- that people have the ability to construct their own realities, and that this can have both positive and negative consequences.

Klosterman’s characterization of Swift via dialogue, description, and even the title of his piece is vital to understanding how Swift’s complex social and professional spheres are intertwined. His methods of characterization are fascinating to me- they’re very reminiscent of fictional works, which allows Klosterman to consciously create the image he wants readers to see. For example, the title “Owner of a Lonely Heart” isn’t explicitly referenced but implies that Swift is lonely, and her evasive answers to questions about her social life support that.

There was nothing confusing about the article, but it made me wonder if all famous people act as consciously as Swift, or if she’s the exception.