I think you understood what I was asking. My mind is made up on the subject - it is a straight up classic. I was asking what the general consensus is, because there is no defining answer.
And after what time frame is it acceptable to consider something classic? Is there a criteria here? Are we talking a hall of fame type deal where we can only consider something classic after it's been out 5 years? I agree to a certain extent that it has to withstand the test of time, but music is also about how it makes you feel in the present not the future.
Oh and High Chief - I agree with you about Like Water For Chocolate