American essayist and literary critic Lee Siegel is renowned for his astute observations regarding the dynamic between authors and readers in the digital era. His remarks highlight a crucial component of critics' roles in the web-driven world of today.

Think of critics as the caretakers of fragile flowers in a huge virtual garden. Critics use words and insights to carefully cultivate these flowers, which are ideas, opinions, and analyses. However, the critic's work requires reader attention in order to flourish, just as actual flowers require sunlight and water. These concepts can flourish and spread swiftly on the digital platform, which serves as a fertile soil. However, the seeds sown by critics may wither away if they are not nurtured by a receptive audience.

According to Siegel, web-based criticism has a different dynamic than traditional print media or academic criticism, which depends on critics' authority and knowledge to influence discourse. Critics now operate more like actors on a stage, exposing themselves to the public's scrutiny and approval. They want readers to participate, share, and endorse the concepts being offered in addition to simply listening.

Siegel also emphasizes how critics may find digital platforms intimidating as well as empowering. On the one hand, the internet offers freedom of expression and a reach never before possible. Narrow subjects that might have gone unnoticed in traditional media can be examined by critics. However, they also have to deal with the constant threat of public disapproval or indifference.

Siegel's assertion essentially captures the interconnectedness of contemporary critics and their virtual audiences. It challenges us to think about how modern criticism is shaped by digital engagement, both in terms of consumption and production.