Chapter 37: Controversy, Criticism, and Support
As soon as Martin's album was released, it sparked a storm of controversy.
Some criticized him, others doubted him. But there were also those who stood up in his defense.
For example, prominent New York music critic Terry Burton published an article in The New York Times speaking up for Martin.
In his article, Burton wrote: "I spoke with Max Martin, who produced Martin's album. He assured me that every track was composed and performed by Martin himself. It's as if some people can't fathom the existence of true talent... but the world is full of surprises. Just as there was Mozart and Liszt, now we have Martin. There are always exceptional individuals among us."
Susie Cortez, editor-in-chief of Classical Music magazine, also voiced her support in her publication:
"Martin is undoubtedly a genius. I played a few of his pieces for my colleagues, and they were all stunned. The level of emotion and intensity in his music is something even seasoned musicians struggle to convey."
"For those accusing Martin of plagiarism, bring forth evidence. Don't tarnish the name of a prodigious talent simply based on unfounded speculation."
"As for those claiming Martin's music is impure—well, I'd say that people hear what's in their own hearts. I had our magazine staff conduct a survey, interviewing a hundred listeners: men, women, elders, and children alike..."
"Some people indeed heard a sense of desire in the music, but others found it full of beauty and warmth. Clearly, it all depends on what one brings to the experience."
Susie Cortez was highly respected in the music world, and her statements quickly tempered some of the criticism.
Ironically, many listeners who privately sensed desire in Martin's music avoided admitting it publicly, fearing they'd be seen as perverse.
And perhaps the most notorious example was none other than Diana herself.
In fact, she went so far as to hold a small press conference in London in Martin's defense.
At the press conference, she said, "Martin is the most talented young artist I've ever met. His music is absolutely original. I was the one who discovered his talent. Back when Martin was filming in London, I happened to be living just above him..."
After Diana recounted her story of how she met Martin, the reporters were taken aback by the unexpectedly charming tale.
One journalist then asked, "Princess Diana, when you listened to the second and fifth tracks on Martin's album, did you experience... desire?"
"Of course not!" Diana replied firmly.
She quietly reassured herself that this wasn't a lie—it was simply for the greater good, to protect Martin's reputation. She couldn't let the world think his music was filled with anything improper.
"When I listened to those pieces, I thought of moments spent with my children..."
Meanwhile, back in front of the TV, William and Harry, who were watching the BBC's live broadcast of the press conference, both felt a surge of emotion.
"William, I miss Mom."
All the uproar outside didn't faze Martin.
That evening, Frank's car pulled into the driveway of the Myers family villa.
The car doors opened, and Frank stepped out with Kris and Miranda by his side.
The Myers family—Grant, Linda, and Martin—were already waiting by the front door to greet them.
In the kitchen, the housekeeper, Mrs. Arlanda, was preparing dinner.
As Frank led Kris and Miranda toward the family, Kris noticed her sister seemed a bit tense. Smiling, she slipped her hand into Miranda's, giving it a gentle squeeze.
"What's this? Nervous because you're about to meet your favorite author?" she teased.
"Pfft, I don't have a favorite author. Why would I be nervous?" Miranda said, feigning indifference.
"Oh, really? Then what's that limited edition Kung Fu Panda book doing in your little bag? And I saw you pack that signed CD at the bottom of your suitcase with such care!"
"I just like his work, not him as a person—uh..."
Just as she spoke, Miranda caught sight of Martin standing beside his parents.
He had striking blue eyes, a chiseled nose, and lips as delicate as flower petals. His features were exquisitely handsome.
His light brown hair fell in loose waves around his face, lending him an air of effortless charm. As the breeze stirred his hair, it added a carefree touch to his presence.
Is that really Martin Myers?
He's even more handsome than in the posters and photos!
Miranda felt her heart speed up, her mouth dry, and her cheeks warm.
"Miranda, are you alright?" Kris asked, noticing her sister's unusual behavior.
Miranda quickly composed herself, smoothing her hair and replying, "I'm fine."
Kris took a careful look at her sister, then glanced at Martin's striking face not far away, a knowing smile forming.
She was well aware that her sister had a weakness for good looks, so she wasn't surprised that Martin's appearance had caught Miranda's attention.
However, Kris also knew that Miranda's crushes tended to be fleeting. Once she became accustomed to the boy's looks, she'd move on quickly.
But as Kris observed Martin more closely, she realized this boy was no mere pretty face.
There was a unique quality about him, a magnetism that went beyond mere appearance. And his deep, lake-blue eyes held a mysterious depth that invited you to discover more.
Of course, Kris thought. He's the genius Martin Myers—he'd never be just a pretty face.
With a quiet chuckle, Kris glanced at Miranda.
Her sister was staring at Martin with wide, starry eyes, utterly captivated.
"Grant, Linda, Martin, allow me to introduce my fiancée, Kris Kerr, and her younger sister—Miranda Kerr," Frank said with pride.
"Kris, Miranda, this is my sister Linda Myers, her husband Grant Myers, and the young genius I keep telling you about—my nephew, Martin Myers."
"Oh, and Miranda, didn't you bring that book for Martin to sign? Go ahead, take it out."
"Miranda... Miranda? Miranda?"
"Ah! Oh, what? Sorry, I was just... a little distracted," Miranda stammered, her cheeks flushing a deep red.
𝙥𝗮𝙩𝙧𝙚𝙤𝙣(.)𝙘𝙤𝙢/𝙂𝙤𝙙𝙊𝙛𝙍𝙚𝙖𝙙𝙚𝙧
✨ • 𝗘𝘅𝗰𝗹𝘂𝘀𝗶𝘃𝗲 𝗔𝗰𝗰𝗲𝘀𝘀: 𝙂𝙚𝙩 𝟲𝟬+ 𝙖𝙙𝙫𝙖𝙣𝙘𝙚𝙙 𝙘𝙝𝙖𝙥𝙩𝙚𝙧𝙨 𝙖𝙝𝙚𝙖𝙙 𝙤𝙛 𝙚𝙫𝙚𝙧𝙮𝙤𝙣𝙚 𝙚𝙡𝙨𝙚.