Jennifer Silverman, The Curious Columnist. File photo
Before penning this column, I did not know the privilege of having a public voice. Writing this column launched a voice where there wasn’t one, building a platform that evolves from one week to the next.
During my fashion career, I styled renowned broadcasters every day. These highly respected individuals utilized their booming voices to speak to the masses about pressing issues.
Of course, my Carrie-Bradshaw-meets-Amelia-Island column does not chronicle newsworthy matters. Nonetheless, finding one’s voice, and suddenly coming to the realization that people are listening, is a curious circumstance.
A few months ago, much to my surprise, I made an unwitting cameo in an article composed by a local writer. The column was essentially a bad-mouthing tirade, fixated on someone for whom I have great respect and admiration.
I apparently functioned as fodder, summoned to justify cruel criticism of my colleague. The tale of this unfounded character assassination is not mine to tell. The confounding mention of Moi, however, is certainly mine to explore.
The author dubbed me a “young woman from New York who writes something about nothing.”
Ahem…I was born and raised in Kentucky, and what exactly does “writing something about nothing” even mean?
Of course, short of an explanation from the horse’s mouth, any interpretations are purely speculative. It does, however, seem safe to say that his statement about me was no compliment.
You may be wondering if I was upset by his unsolicited evaluation. If anything, I was puzzled. This writer frequently wields the power of his pen to tear down others. I found myself wondering what happened to this guy to render him so rife with negativity.
When I committed to writing this column, I understood that reader reactions are par for the course. Thanks to the generosity of readers who have reached out to me, I’ve discovered that my written attempts to figure things out (and laugh along the way) seem to help others do the same.
The writer’s critique had largely slipped my mind until I happened upon a quote about self-respect from brilliant author, Joan Didion: “To assign unanswered letters their proper weight, to free us from the expectations of others, to give us back to ourselves – there lies the great, the singular power of self-respect.” Her insightful words got me thinking.
First off, the writer is certainly entitled to his opinion. If my column is not his cup of tea, no one is forcing him to read it. We all gravitate toward the voices that resonate, and we’re all entitled to avoid those which do not. However, the notion that news and politics are the only subject matter of benefit is really narrow-minded thinking.
The big stuff that we as a society are struggling with is of great importance. Bravo to writers who are called to tackle current events and politics. My column and others like it don’t pretend to be “news.” Lifestyle columns are thought-provoking and often funny. They are indeed not politically significant. Still, they are not, “nothing.”
I believe that anyone who is courageous enough to bring forth their voice is cultivating a pursuit that is bigger than themselves - and their individual voice. At the end of the day, we should all feel empowered to express ourselves.
The evolution of this column has enabled me to identify two clear intentions each week. I venture to use my voice to make a positive contribution and I maintain the self-respect to appreciate that this column does in fact make an impact.
So, here’s my message of self-expression to the local penman: As an accomplished writer, you could be a supportive and encouraging presence who puts your voice to good use by bolstering others within our community. Instead, you attempt to quiet the voices that you do not like. What exactly does your chronic criticizing accomplish? Striving to turn down the volume on others will not make your voice any louder.
So, my sincere thanks to the writer who endeavored to belittle voices unlike his own. You remind me why columns about life and learning are so very valuable. Much obliged.
Jennifer Silverman has served as a celebrity wardrobe stylist for hundreds of TV personalities and professional athletes. A few of her favorite projects include the Olympic Games and the Oscars. Silverman and her Westie, Petunia, relocated from Manhattan to Amelia Island in 2019. Additional quirky commentary penned by Silverman is available by visiting www.CuriousColumnist.com. Email her at Jennifer@CuriousColumnist.com