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Russell Lynes, a distinguished cultural critic and tastemaker, shaped the discourse on art, fashion, and society with his insightful commentary and keen observations. As the editor of Harper's Magazine and a prolific author, Lynes explored diverse facets of American culture, from high art to popular culture, with wit, sophistication, and erudition. His essays on aesthetics, manners, and social trends provided a window into the evolving landscape of American society, influencing generations of intellectuals, tastemakers, and consumers alike.
"In my estimation, the only thing that is more to be guarded against than bad taste is good taste."
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"Camouflage is a game we all like to play, but our secrets are as surely revealed by what we want to seem to be as by what we want to conceal."
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"If you can't ignore an insult, top it; if you can't top it, laugh it off; and if you can't laugh it off, it's probably deserved."
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"A truly appreciative child will break, lose, spoil, or fondle to death any really successful gift within a matter of minutes."
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"The bungalow had more to do with how Americans live today than any other building that has gone remotely by the name of architecture in our history."
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"It is always well to accept your own shortcomings with candor but to regard those of your friends with polite incredulity."