What is social commentary?

A social commentary is a work of art that makes a comment on society. It is often critical and political in nature, but it does not always have to be. Social commentary may address a perceived problem in society, which is not necessarily political.

Social commentaries may be direct, such as in sermons or in political campaign speeches. It may also be direct in less formal contexts, such as in stand-up comedy or in music and literature. Social commentary may also be symbolic, which allows the viewer or listener to draw their own interpretation as to what the nature of the comment is meant to be.