The prompt Box

Writing is an art and there’s no better platform to exercise it than your own beloved GT! To unleash the writer
in you, GT brings you a new topic every time and asks for your views on the same. Here are some intriguing
responses from the young writers at Amity for the prompt…

With universities like Harvard analysing Taylor Swift's lyrics, NYU offering a course on Lana Del Rey's artistry, and USC examining the Marvel Cinematic Universe, the academic study of pop culture is becoming increasingly common. Do such courses provide meaningful insights into society and culture, or do they risk being seen as superficial pursuits?

“Pop culture trickles from the confines of media that is consumed deliriously in society. Naturally, the academic study of such subjects is often viewed as superficial. However, these courses are not simply grazing the shallow depths of media but dissecting what society tends to engage with. All media reflects society and there is as much substance in lyrics as there is in literature. All that matters is to decide where value must be embedded.”
Shambhavi Sharma, AIS PV, XI F

“When Harvard analyses Taylor Swift’s lyrics and NYU honours Lana Del Rey’s artistry, it exceeds mere fandom. Such classes unravel how music, film, and art are mirrors of our values, identities, and struggles. Some critics might consider these studies insignificant, but they are connecting points between academia and the fabric of our world. These courses challenge to view such culture not as mere distraction, but as reflective of our most intimate selves.”
Ojas Gupta, AGS Noida, IB2

“Through pop culture, we can learn about our values and beliefs. Taylor Swift’s songs can reveal people’s opinions about love, heartbreak, and growing up. Moreover, the value of these courses lies on the way they are taught. If the courses are taught thoughtfully, they can be a great way to learn about the world around us, helping to connect pop culture to bigger ideas.”
Remisha Verma, AIS MV, IX B

“As universities offer courses on analysing song lyrics, emphasis is being given to pop culture as a mirror of society. However, these courses tread the fine line between true analysis of pop culture's influence and trivialising it by merely indulging in fandoms. With scholarly objectives, they may evolve to be something much more than merely niche interests.”
Advika Singh, AIS VKC Lko, XII C

“Poets have been lauded for their skill to put forth impactful messages through their art. Similarly, many directors, musicians, and artists imbibe powerful messages in their art. So, why is it that when it comes to pop culture, it holds no significance? Pop culture is everywhere – from music and films to the local eateries and grocery stores. Isn’t that something quite far away from ‘superficial pursuits’?”
Diya Kerur, AIS Gur 46, XI J

“The pedagogical analysis of pop culture provides useful insights into contemporary society. Taylor Swift's songs deal with issues of love, whereas Lana Del Rey's music encompasses aspects such as nostalgia and twisted femininity. Analysing these courses also allow the application of critical theories, feminism, post-colonialism, and media studies to reflect societal structures as well as provide insights on modern problems and issues.”
Vedangi Mago, AIS Mohali, X A

“Such courses offer valuable insights into contemporary values, societal issues, and identity formation. They explore themes like gender, politics, mental health, and representation. Ultimately, the value of such courses depends on their execution. When taught with a focus on critical analysis and societal relevance, they can provide fruitful insights into the cultural forces shaping our world.”
Samaira Ankit Prasad, AIS Vas 1, IX A

“The academic study of pop culture proposes profound insights into contemporary society, helping students develop critical thinking skills while understanding how entertainment shapes cultural narratives. Swift’s lyrics reflect evolving views on feminism, while Marvel films tackle themes like moral responsibility. It's about understanding who we are as a culture.”
Anvi Adita Mohanty, AIS Noida, XI C

“Pop culture courses are maps to our collective psyche. When studied deeply, they reveal how myths are born, how identities are shaped, and how we evolve in a world of constant flux. But if treated superficially, it risks trivialising its own potential. The challenge lies in peeling back its layers and proving that the ordinary is profoundly extraordinary.”
Sarah Mehta, AIS Saket, XI E

“Studying contemporary lifestyle in academia unpacks the societal values woven into modern media. These courses inspire critical thinking and connect students to the cultural pulse of society. Critics may label them as trivial, yet their true value lies in rigorous analysis. When grounded in scholarly inquiry, such studies illuminate how pop culture reflects the human experience, transforming entertainment into a profound lens for exploring the intricacies of modern life.”
Advika Singh, AIS Jagdishpur, IX C

“Interpreting pop culture from an academic perspective gives significant insights into our society. By fusing sociology, media analysis, and literature, these courses promote interdisciplinary learning and close the gap between the classroom and real-world experiences. At the end of it all, these courses are meaningful explorations of the social tapestry spun by media.”
Chhavi Gupta, AIS Gur 43, XI C

“There is a rise in academic discourse over pop culture, as the interest in high culture courses is waning. Is the intellectual aristocracy gradually dying, or is pop culture the new superior? Because whether one likes it or not, in truth, like Thanos, pop culture is inevitable, and unfortunately for the cognoscenti, there is no Iron Man to snap this fact away.”
Vageesha Vashishtha, AIS Navi Mumbai, X B