"'The New York Times' list is a bunch of crap. They ought to call it the editor's choice. It sure isn't based on sales"

In this quote, Howard Stern is revealing his uncertainty and criticism towards "The New York Times" Best Seller list. Stern's remark recommends that he views the list as being not simply reflective of real book sales however rather as a curated selection affected by the editors' preferences or other non-transparent requirements. This point of view welcomes numerous interpretations.

Firstly, it implies a suspicion of trustworthiness and openness within prestigious institutions like "The New York Times". By calling the list "a bunch of crap", Stern communicates a disappointment, perhaps shared by lots of in the literary and entertainment industries, about the potential lack of objectivity and the perceived elitism in how the list is assembled. The expression "editor's option" suggests that choices are being made behind closed doors, contrasting with the expectation that the list must be an unbiased representation based upon measurable sales information.

Moreover, Stern's remark alludes to the more comprehensive discourse about market gatekeeping. It shows concerns that opportunities for acknowledgment and success might not be similarly accessible to all authors. If the list deviates from being sales-driven, it could imply that well-connected or more preferred authors are offered precedence, therefore influencing public perception and market success unfairly.

Furthermore, this criticism highlights a stress in between art and commerce. A bestseller list preferably represents public enthusiasm, driven by consumer option and market need. If this list is contrived or influenced by subjective judgment instead of sales, it raises questions about credibility in cultural and literary assessment.

Eventually, Stern's quote underscores the value of openness and fairness in how cultural awards are determined and awarded. It challenges "The New York Times" to ensure that its best seller list really shows customer preferences, keeping stability, and trust within the publishing world.