Lesley Gore's part-time field was pop singer, and in her brief but urgent prime, she was the Queen of Teen Angst. She endured heartbreak as a birthday girl betrayed by her beau in 'It's My Party,' savored revenge in the sequel 'Judy's Turn to Cry' and belted the proto-feminist anthem 'You Don't Own Me.'

In this quote, Richard Corliss discusses the career and impact of pop singer Lesley Gore during her brief but influential rise to fame. Corliss describes her as the Queen of Teen Angst, highlighting how her music captured the emotions and struggles of young people, particularly in relation to heartbreak, betrayal, and empowerment. Gore's songs, which became anthems for teenage listeners, are remembered for their emotional intensity and connection to personal experiences.

The reference to "It's My Party" points to one of Gore's most iconic hits, where the protagonist is heartbroken by her boyfriend at a birthday party, symbolizing the emotional turmoil of being a teenager. In "Judy's Turn to Cry," Gore responds with a sense of revenge, reflecting the emotional rollercoaster of youth and relationships. These two songs, paired together, form a narrative arc of heartbreak and revenge that resonated with her audience at the time.

Corliss also mentions Gore’s song "You Don't Own Me," which stands out as a proto-feminist anthem. This track was revolutionary for its time, as it emphasized independence and self-determination for women, an important message of empowerment that was ahead of its time. The song conveyed a strong message about personal freedom and the refusal to be controlled by others, making it a timeless feminist declaration.

Ultimately, Richard Corliss' quote paints a picture of Lesley Gore as an artist whose music gave voice to the emotional complexity and struggles of adolescence. Through her powerful songs, she captured the universal themes of anger, empowerment, and heartbreak, establishing herself as an influential figure in the world of pop music and teen culture during her prime.