Introduction

Abstract

The word middlebrow is magnetic. Whenever l drop it into conversation, I get an immediate reaction from people: a slightly defensive stiffening and a glint of curiosity, a desire to use the word themselves and see what happens. Even when it is unfashionable or mildly taboo, the word middlebrow lies ready just under the surface of conversations about culture. It carries an immensely seductive promise that a hidden structure organizes culture, and a judgmental sting that makes us anxious about where we fit. A term with this kind of impact is not going to disappear, and if the word middlebrow has such power then it should be used with care. The middlebrow should be more than a quick, lazy label.