Meaning: This quote by Carroll O'Connor, an American actor best known for his role as Archie Bunker in the television sitcom "All in the Family," sheds light on the complex relationship between artists and reviewers. O'Connor's words capture the sentiment that reviewers, as critics of art, are often seen as detested enemies by artists, primarily because they hold a position of invulnerability. In delving into this quote, it's important to explore the dynamics between artists and reviewers, the impact of criticism on art, and the power dynamics at play.

Artists invest a significant amount of time, effort, and emotion into their work, making it a deeply personal and vulnerable endeavor. When their creations are subjected to criticism, it can evoke feelings of defensiveness, vulnerability, and even hostility. Unlike artists, who are often emotionally invested in their work and susceptible to criticism, reviewers are perceived as invulnerable due to their role as external critics. This perceived invulnerability can lead to a sense of frustration and resentment on the part of the artists, as they feel powerless in the face of critical evaluation.

Artists often view reviewers as detested enemies because they possess the power to influence public perception and reception of their work. A negative review can have detrimental effects on an artist's career, reputation, and livelihood. As such, there is a sense of imbalance in the relationship between artists and reviewers, with the latter holding a position of authority and influence that can significantly impact the former. This power dynamic can breed animosity and distrust, further fueling the perception of reviewers as detested enemies.

Furthermore, the quote highlights the inherent vulnerability of artists in contrast to the perceived invulnerability of reviewers. Artists pour their creativity, passion, and originality into their work, making themselves susceptible to criticism and judgment. In contrast, reviewers are often shielded from the emotional investment and vulnerability that artists experience, as they approach art from a position of critical analysis and evaluation. This disconnect in vulnerability contributes to the tension between artists and reviewers, as the former feel exposed and defenseless in the face of criticism, while the latter maintain a sense of detachment and authority.

It's also important to acknowledge that criticism, when constructive and insightful, can be beneficial to the growth and development of art and artists. However, the quote by Carroll O'Connor illuminates the more contentious aspect of the artist-reviewer dynamic, where criticism is perceived as a threat rather than a constructive tool for improvement. This sentiment reflects the emotional weight that artists carry in relation to their work and the impact that external evaluation can have on their well-being and creative process.

In conclusion, Carroll O'Connor's quote encapsulates the complex and often adversarial relationship between artists and reviewers. It underscores the vulnerability of artists in contrast to the perceived invulnerability of reviewers, shedding light on the power dynamics and emotional stakes at play. By delving into the dynamics between artists and reviewers, the impact of criticism on art, and the power differentials at play, we gain a deeper understanding of the quote's significance in capturing the fraught relationship between creators and critics.