W. David Marx's 'Blank Space' critiques 21st-century cultural stagnation under neoliberalism

In his 2025 publication 'Blank Space: A Cultural History of the Twenty-First Century,' W. David Marx contends that modern culture lacks the dynamism seen in the 20th century. Released by Viking, this 384-page book attributes this stagnation to neoliberal frameworks that emphasize profit. Marx points to poptimism and the commodification of spectacle as indicators of this cultural shift, while also noting the politicization of culture by both ends of the political spectrum. He underscores the significance of drag culture and Chicago drill as influential subcultures, even amid their commercialization. Drawing inspiration from Fredric Jameson and Mark Fisher, Marx proposes 'fusion' and advocates for viewing art as a public asset. Natasha O'Neill's review, published on April 11, 2026, critiques Marx's arguments.