Critical Reflection: On Khairul Ehsani Sapari’s 'Where Your Dreams Come to Die (But, Hey, It’s All About the Journey, Right?)' by Amir Amin
Critical Reflection: On Khairul Ehsani Sapari’s 'Where Your Dreams Come to Die (But, Hey, It’s All About the Journey, Right?)' Reading Khairul Ehsani Sapari’s article, Where Your Dreams Come to Die (But, Hey, It’s All About the Journey, Right?) was like staring at a mirror that didn’t flatter but reflected truths I both knew and tried to ignore. I approach this reflection not as a distant reader, but as an insider—an art practitioner, teacher, and observer of the Malaysian art scene. The article’s biting sarcasm, caustic humor, and bleak yet accurate picture of post-graduation life in the arts resonated deeply. Though at first glance it reads like satire, there is sincerity within the cynicism. This essay attempts to critically reflect on the themes presented, unpack their implications, and consider how they align with my lived experiences and observations in the local art industry. The Tone of Brutal Honesty (Laced with Humor) From the opening line, the tone is unapol...