Before I get into the question of whether or not the scene we saw was rape, I just wanted to mention a few of the online articles linked to the blog post. First, I find it highly amusing and also disturbing that the firefighters were weighing in so enthusiastically on Shiela or Janet (or as many said, both). However, a lot of the blog posts and other forums seemed to put a lot more thought into the complexities and motivations behind each character, as well as the creator's reactions to the huge fan blowup in regards to the rape scene. It all made me wonder just who the creators were writing the show for, if they seem so offended and upset that the internet got so passionate about that one scene.
Speaking of which, after a lot of thought, I do not think that the Tommy/Janet scene was rape. I think that it was more along the lines of angry and spontaneous sex, like as Madalyn suggested. Also, I think that Tommy initiated the sex as an assertion of power (much like a rapist would), because just prior to that scene they were splitting up their assets and possessions. Tommy noted to Janet that after running into burning buildings and working really hard, all he got out of the marriage was a used and unwanted dining table set. HOWEVER, what he also got out of the marriage was her, so in light of the fact that she was also seeing his brother, I think Tommy did what he did because he wanted to feel like he got something out of the marriage, and that he 'had' Janet first, and always would. Most are probably thinking 'doesn't this then mean that Tommy raped Janet?' Perhaps. But I think that maybe this was meant as a final 'I'm still angry with you but goodbye' sex moment between the two, and also a demonstration that Tommy was still worth something to make his ex-wife feel pleasure.
I guess my thoughts still aren't finalized clearly, but I do not think that it was rape, but rather Tommy's own weaknesses and need to prove his self-worth--to show that however many years they were married was not for nothing. He still wanted to see if he "had it," even though Janet initially showed a lot of displeasure at the sudden sex.
Tuesday, November 30, 2010
Monday, November 29, 2010
Rescue Me, Redux
Today in class we'll be revisiting RESCUE ME, the FX series about NYC firefighters and their relationships.
We'll be looking at the much-debated "rape scene" in the episode SPARKS. I refer you to the earlier post including readings on the show and on this particular episode for your review.
The female characters in the show have been written about my many television critics, with most writers agreeing the female characters, in particular Janet (Andrea Roth plays Tommy's ex-wife) and Sheila (Callie Thorne plays his cousin's widow and Tommy's on-off girlfriend) are very strongly written and acted.
Some very fine actresses have made cameo and regular appearances on the show, from Tatum O'Neal (who plays Tommy's self-destructive sister Maggie) and Maura Tierney (who plays a volatile love interest), to Gina Gershon, Marisa Tomei and Amy Sedaris. But the central female characters are the two who are seemingly constantly vying for Tommy Gavin's affections. The sexual politics (or "lady troubles" as some have called it) among the female characters certainly make for some of the show's most dramatic and dynamic moments.
When a face-off between Janet and Sheila finally occurred, it was generally agreed that it had been a long time coming. Fan forums discuss, often crudely, the relative merits of each. Interestingly these woman are well aware of Tommy's shortcomings, but can't seem to let go of him. Is this indicative of their weaknesses? Or Tommy's strengths?
To be fair, both Janet and Sheila have their flaws: both are manipulative women who use sex to get what they want. For a meta-cultural take on this, real firefighters weigh in on the all-important question, Sheila or Janet?
I'm interested in hearing your responses to the episode viewed in class in its full context, particularly whether you believe your response to it may have been affected by reading the internet discussions. Do you think the appellation of "rape" is appropriate for the aforementioned scene? Why or why not?
We'll be looking at the much-debated "rape scene" in the episode SPARKS. I refer you to the earlier post including readings on the show and on this particular episode for your review.
The female characters in the show have been written about my many television critics, with most writers agreeing the female characters, in particular Janet (Andrea Roth plays Tommy's ex-wife) and Sheila (Callie Thorne plays his cousin's widow and Tommy's on-off girlfriend) are very strongly written and acted.
Some very fine actresses have made cameo and regular appearances on the show, from Tatum O'Neal (who plays Tommy's self-destructive sister Maggie) and Maura Tierney (who plays a volatile love interest), to Gina Gershon, Marisa Tomei and Amy Sedaris. But the central female characters are the two who are seemingly constantly vying for Tommy Gavin's affections. The sexual politics (or "lady troubles" as some have called it) among the female characters certainly make for some of the show's most dramatic and dynamic moments.
When a face-off between Janet and Sheila finally occurred, it was generally agreed that it had been a long time coming. Fan forums discuss, often crudely, the relative merits of each. Interestingly these woman are well aware of Tommy's shortcomings, but can't seem to let go of him. Is this indicative of their weaknesses? Or Tommy's strengths? 
To be fair, both Janet and Sheila have their flaws: both are manipulative women who use sex to get what they want. For a meta-cultural take on this, real firefighters weigh in on the all-important question, Sheila or Janet?I'm interested in hearing your responses to the episode viewed in class in its full context, particularly whether you believe your response to it may have been affected by reading the internet discussions. Do you think the appellation of "rape" is appropriate for the aforementioned scene? Why or why not?
In the News: US Judge suggests soldiers should "convert" lesbians
Although the original article has since been removed, The Raw Story and other news websites posted this story about a judge whose suggestion that lesbians join the armed forces so they can be "cpnverted" by male soldiers has been drawing ire across the interwebs. The comment section on the Pink News website posting of the story is particularly impassioned.
Thoughts?
(My chosen image for this post, conveying my own "WTF?" response, is of a female veteran of Britain's Women's Land Army during World War II.)
Meetings to Discuss Essays
I'll be on campus at 1 pm today, in the Starbucks, for anyone who cares to stop by to discuss their essay. If you don't see me, I may have stepped away for a moment, so give me time to come back.
I strongly urge you to talk over your essay with me in person. I don't really have time after class to talk with you, and so the best thing is to come to my scheduled office hours (or Starbucks hours, as the case may be) or make an appointment with me to meet you another time. I can also answer questions via email.
Your essays are due one week from today, in class, no exceptions, so make sure you're on the right track with your topic and sources. Your abstracts are due today, either in class or via email.
I strongly urge you to talk over your essay with me in person. I don't really have time after class to talk with you, and so the best thing is to come to my scheduled office hours (or Starbucks hours, as the case may be) or make an appointment with me to meet you another time. I can also answer questions via email.
Your essays are due one week from today, in class, no exceptions, so make sure you're on the right track with your topic and sources. Your abstracts are due today, either in class or via email.
Saturday, November 27, 2010
Riot Girls, UK Style
From the Guardian comes this story of British schoolgirls who engage in a peaceful protest to protect a police van during a eek of demonstrations. The main difference between these protests and the ones of the late 1960s: those students were mostly wealthy and privileged. These kids are from every walk of life but mostly middle and lower middle class. A very interesting and provocative event.
Tuesday, November 23, 2010
King Hu's Kick Ass Women
Yesterday in class I mentioned the Chinese filmmaker King Hu, who made wonderful martial films that often featured women in leading roles as fighters and warriors. I did some looking around on line and found some interesting resources. This interview is with Cheng Pei-pei, an actress who worked with King Hu on a number of films.
Hu's films were obviously a big influence on Quentin Tarentino, who shows a real affinity for Asian cinema featuring martial arts choreography and fight scenes. Oscar winning filmmaker Ang Lee also paid homage to Hu in his blockbuster film Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon, which shared some similar scenes and moves with Hu's well-loved classic Come Drink with Me (1966) which was reissued on DVD two years ago; this review of the DVD release discusses Hu's influence on contemporary cinema.
Monday, November 22, 2010
Critical Essay Guidelines
The essay will be due in class Monday December 6, but you may turn it in anytime before that. No late papers will be accepted!
Everyone is required to submit a 100-150 word abstract of their essay by Monday, November 29th. Students are also urged to make an appointment to discuss their essay drafts, research and other issues. I will be available on Monday the 29th during the day on campus, and by appointment/arrangement that entire week.
Basic guidelines:
1. Length: 1500-1800 words.
2. Spacing: 1.5 or double
3. Endnotes, not footnotes. You may use the endnotes function in MSWord, or create a separate page and number your notes by hand in your essay text.
4. Complete bibliography.
5. You must utilize at least 3 outside sources, and use correct formatting for bibliographic information (MLA format is fine). You may use sources provided on the class blog or the handouts.
6. Your topic must be related to gender and popular culture. Be as focused and specific as possible. Feel free to email me to discuss topics this week. I am happy to help you narrow your focus and suggest source material.
Everyone is required to submit a 100-150 word abstract of their essay by Monday, November 29th. Students are also urged to make an appointment to discuss their essay drafts, research and other issues. I will be available on Monday the 29th during the day on campus, and by appointment/arrangement that entire week.
Basic guidelines:
1. Length: 1500-1800 words.
2. Spacing: 1.5 or double
3. Endnotes, not footnotes. You may use the endnotes function in MSWord, or create a separate page and number your notes by hand in your essay text.
4. Complete bibliography.
5. You must utilize at least 3 outside sources, and use correct formatting for bibliographic information (MLA format is fine). You may use sources provided on the class blog or the handouts.
6. Your topic must be related to gender and popular culture. Be as focused and specific as possible. Feel free to email me to discuss topics this week. I am happy to help you narrow your focus and suggest source material.
Not Too Classy and Nothing Wrong With It
Lady Sovereign is a Female British rapper. Right from the get go we can see two things outside of the norm at least from a popular American music perspective. She's a white, female rapper, and she's a British Rapper. She is also a lesbian, admittedly so, making her one of the first mainstream LGBT rappers. I think Lady Sovereigns songs exemplify two things. One: be who you are and do what you want. Two: she goes back to the basics when rap was more simplistic and just about real life.
Lady Sovereign falls into a small group as she is a female singer. She falls into an even smaller, I'd go so far as to say a minuscule group being a female rapper. Try naming female rappers. Here's what I could get without looking any up.
Female: Foxy Brown, Missy Elliot, Fergie (depending the day of the week), Khia, Lil' Kim, Lil' Mama, M.I.A., Nicki Minaj, and Lumidee ( a Puerto Rican rapper in America).
Male: Eminem, Obie Trice, Akon, T-Pain, Lil' Wayne, Drake, Notorious B.I.G., Redman, 50 Cent, Tupac, Chamillionaire, Nate Dogg, Dr. Dre, Birdman, Kanye West, Jay-Z, Ludacris, Pitbull, Busta Ryhmes, Ray J, Xibit, T.I., Young Jeezy, and the list goes on and on...
It would be easier to add to the male list, not so easy to add to the female list. Note that I avoided groups.
The song below is entitled "Love Me or Hate Me." She makes many "unflattering" comments about her personal appearance including her height, weight, and personal grooming. I feel this song in particular is very non-stereotypical of a female, and especially of a wrapper or celebrity.
I'm not much for censor ship so none of the wording has been altered in anyway. IF you're offended by "vulgar" language now is your chance to stop reading.
"Love Me Or Hate Me"
Yeah,
It's officially the biggest midget in the game.
I dunno.
Make way for the S.O.V.
[Chorus (x2):]
Love me or hate me, it's still an obsession.
Love me or hate me, that is the question.
If you love me then thank you!
If you hate me then fuck you!
I'm fat, I need a diet.
No, in fact I'm just here lying
And I ain't got the biggest breast-s-s, but I write all the best disses.
I got hairy armpits, but I don't walk around like this.
I wear a big baggy t-shirt that hides that nasty shit.
Ugh!
Never had my nails done.
Bite them down until they're numb.
I'm the one with the non-existent bum,
Now I don't really give a....Ugh!
I'm missing my shepherd's pie
Like a high maintenance chick missin' her diamonds.
I'm missin' my clippers lighters.
Now bow down to your royal highness.
No! I don't own a corgi.
Had the hamster - it died 'cause I ignored it.
Go on then, go on report me,
I'm English, try and deport me!
[Chorus (x2):]
Love me or hate me, it's still an obsession.
Love me or hate me, that is the question.
If you love me then thank you!
If you hate me then fuck you!
I'm that funky little monkey with the tiniest ears.
I don't like drinking fancy champy,
I'll stick wit Heineken beers.
Whoops, might burp in ya face,
A little unlady-like,
What can I say?
Well oh gosh I'm not posh, me, I wear odd socks.
I do what I'm doing, yeah!
So everybody's entitled to opinions,
I open my mouth and shit I got millions.
I'm the middle kid, the riddle kid,
I'll make you giggle till your sick
Cause my nose jiggles while I spit.
Yeah I do have some stories
And its true I want all the glory.
Go on then, come on support me,
I'm English, try and deport me!
[Chorus (x2):]
Love me or hate me, it's still an obsession.
Love me or hate me, that is the question.
If you love me then thank you!
If you hate me then fuck you!
Love me or hate me
Love me or hate me
So I can't dance and I really can't sing.
I can only do one thing,
And that's be Lady Sovereign!
So I can't dance and I really can't sing.
I can only do one thing,
And that's be Lady Sovereign!
[Chorus (x4):]
Love me or hate me, it's still an obsession.
Love me or hate me, that is the question.
If you love me then thank you!
If you hate me then fuck you!
[x2:]
Love me or hate me
Love me or hate me
Love me or hate me
I can only do one thing,
And that's be Lady Sovereign!
Lady Sovereign falls into a small group as she is a female singer. She falls into an even smaller, I'd go so far as to say a minuscule group being a female rapper. Try naming female rappers. Here's what I could get without looking any up.
Female: Foxy Brown, Missy Elliot, Fergie (depending the day of the week), Khia, Lil' Kim, Lil' Mama, M.I.A., Nicki Minaj, and Lumidee ( a Puerto Rican rapper in America).
Male: Eminem, Obie Trice, Akon, T-Pain, Lil' Wayne, Drake, Notorious B.I.G., Redman, 50 Cent, Tupac, Chamillionaire, Nate Dogg, Dr. Dre, Birdman, Kanye West, Jay-Z, Ludacris, Pitbull, Busta Ryhmes, Ray J, Xibit, T.I., Young Jeezy, and the list goes on and on...
It would be easier to add to the male list, not so easy to add to the female list. Note that I avoided groups.
The song below is entitled "Love Me or Hate Me." She makes many "unflattering" comments about her personal appearance including her height, weight, and personal grooming. I feel this song in particular is very non-stereotypical of a female, and especially of a wrapper or celebrity.
I'm not much for censor ship so none of the wording has been altered in anyway. IF you're offended by "vulgar" language now is your chance to stop reading.
"Love Me Or Hate Me"
Yeah,
It's officially the biggest midget in the game.
I dunno.
Make way for the S.O.V.
[Chorus (x2):]
Love me or hate me, it's still an obsession.
Love me or hate me, that is the question.
If you love me then thank you!
If you hate me then fuck you!
I'm fat, I need a diet.
No, in fact I'm just here lying
And I ain't got the biggest breast-s-s, but I write all the best disses.
I got hairy armpits, but I don't walk around like this.
I wear a big baggy t-shirt that hides that nasty shit.
Ugh!
Never had my nails done.
Bite them down until they're numb.
I'm the one with the non-existent bum,
Now I don't really give a....Ugh!
I'm missing my shepherd's pie
Like a high maintenance chick missin' her diamonds.
I'm missin' my clippers lighters.
Now bow down to your royal highness.
No! I don't own a corgi.
Had the hamster - it died 'cause I ignored it.
Go on then, go on report me,
I'm English, try and deport me!
[Chorus (x2):]
Love me or hate me, it's still an obsession.
Love me or hate me, that is the question.
If you love me then thank you!
If you hate me then fuck you!
I'm that funky little monkey with the tiniest ears.
I don't like drinking fancy champy,
I'll stick wit Heineken beers.
Whoops, might burp in ya face,
A little unlady-like,
What can I say?
Well oh gosh I'm not posh, me, I wear odd socks.
I do what I'm doing, yeah!
So everybody's entitled to opinions,
I open my mouth and shit I got millions.
I'm the middle kid, the riddle kid,
I'll make you giggle till your sick
Cause my nose jiggles while I spit.
Yeah I do have some stories
And its true I want all the glory.
Go on then, come on support me,
I'm English, try and deport me!
[Chorus (x2):]
Love me or hate me, it's still an obsession.
Love me or hate me, that is the question.
If you love me then thank you!
If you hate me then fuck you!
Love me or hate me
Love me or hate me
So I can't dance and I really can't sing.
I can only do one thing,
And that's be Lady Sovereign!
So I can't dance and I really can't sing.
I can only do one thing,
And that's be Lady Sovereign!
[Chorus (x4):]
Love me or hate me, it's still an obsession.
Love me or hate me, that is the question.
If you love me then thank you!
If you hate me then fuck you!
[x2:]
Love me or hate me
Love me or hate me
Love me or hate me
I can only do one thing,
And that's be Lady Sovereign!
Sunday, November 21, 2010
Time's Most 25 Influential Women of the Past Century
Time Magazine just released their list (among others) listing and giving full-page articles to whom they believed were the twenty-five most influential women in the past century. Clearly most of these women are Americans, but there are a few exceptions, such as Jiang Qing (Mao Zedong's wife in Communist China), Mother Theresa and Inirda Gandhi. I was surprised that no American suffragists such as Elizabeth Cady Stanton were on the list...what do you think?
Man I Feel Like A Woman
Though I’ve never really been a fan of Shania Twain, I have to admit that the “Man I Feel Like A Woman” is definitely a pro female empowerment kind of song. It follows the trend of most pop songs of having one or two alternating verses and a repeating chorus. It doesn’t really have to many points that its trying to get across besides the central idea of women taking on generally male roles in a relationship.
I always remember the song as one played at block party -like events where as soon as it started to play all the women would get up and dance to it. Not exactly my cup of tea, but it certainly got a response from the women who were present.
As for the video itself, its pretty much a gender switch from Robert Palmer's Addicted To Love music video where he is seen, front and center in a suit and tie, surrounded by supermodel women playing guitars. In Shania's video she switches the dolled up female supermodels for dolled up male models, also bearing guitars. Also she initially is dressed in a long black coat, white shirt, tie and top hat with her hair concealed. It is at once both masculine and feminine. However, as the video continues she sheds the male exterior and shows a much more feminine ensemble while maintaining the initial sense of empowerment. Basically, the video aims to show how a woman can take control of relationships and be proud of her sexuality.
Let's go girls! Come on.
I'm going out tonight-I'm feelin' alright
Gonna let it all hang out
Wanna make some noise-really raise my voice
Yeah, I wanna scream and shout
No inhibitions-make no conditions
Get a little outta line
I ain't gonna act politically correct
I only wanna have a good time
The best thing about being a woman
Is the prerogative to have a little fun
Oh, oh, oh, go totally crazy-forget I'm a lady
Men's shirts-short skirts
Oh, oh, oh, really go wild-yeah, doin' it in style
Oh, oh, oh, get in the action-feel the attraction
Color my hair-do what I dare
Oh, oh, oh, I wanna be free-yeah, to feel the way I feel
Man! I feel like a woman!
The girls need a break-tonight we're gonna take
The chance to get out on the town
We don't need romance-we only wanna dance
We're gonna let our hair hang down
The best thing about being a woman
Is the prerogative to have a little fun
Oh, oh, oh, go totally crazy-forget I'm a lady
Men's shirts-short skirts
Oh, oh, oh, really go wild-yeah, doin' it in style
Oh, oh, oh, get in the action-feel the attraction
Color my hair-do what I dare
Oh, oh, oh, I wanna be free-yeah, to feel the way I feel
Man! I feel like a woman!
The best thing about being a woman
Is the prerogative to have a little fun (fun, fun)
Oh, oh, oh, go totally crazy-forget I'm a lady
Men's shirts-short skirts
Oh, oh, oh, really go wild-yeah, doin' it in style
Oh, oh, oh, get in the action-feel the attraction
Color my hair-do what I dare
Oh, oh, oh, I wanna be free-yeah, to feel the way I feel
Man! I feel like a woman!
I get totally crazy
Can you feel it
Come, come, come on baby
I feel like a woman
TLC- No Scrubs
I chose to analyze TLC's "No Scrubs." The band TLC is an all girl american r&b group. There are three members in the band. The aspect I like best about them is their confidence as females in their songs. I like the band's attitude, one that they couldn't have if they weren't all females. The listener can tell they are independent but still have a sexy image as well. In this song "No Scrubs" they almost seem to be sexy, attractive women who are "playing hard to get."
The lyrics in this song talk about "scrubs" which they define as guy's that think they're "all that" and a guy that "can't get love" from them. A scrub is trash compared to them. I like how for once a female group writes a song about how they aren't going to get with the guys that are trashy and try to hook up with everyone. Instead of the usual songs male artists write about how they're going to have many sexual escapades with multiple random women.
The lyrics in this song talk about "scrubs" which they define as guy's that think they're "all that" and a guy that "can't get love" from them. A scrub is trash compared to them. I like how for once a female group writes a song about how they aren't going to get with the guys that are trashy and try to hook up with everyone. Instead of the usual songs male artists write about how they're going to have many sexual escapades with multiple random women.
In my mind this gives me the image of confident women walking by a man they know wants them, but they don't even give him the time of the day, they are better than that, to just give the man what he wants, for attention like many women do. Instead they're confident enough to know they're classier than that and can walk away from the man with their heads held high, knowing they're better than all of that.
Lyrics:
A scrub is a guy that thinks hes fine and is also known as a buster
Always thinkin' about what he wants
He just sits on his (oh his, on his, on his)
So...(no)
I don't want your number (no)
I don't wanna give you mine and (no)
I don't wanna meet you no where (no)
I don't want none of your time and (no)
I don't want no scrub,
A scrub is a guy that can't get no love from me,
Hanging out the passenger side,
Of his best friends ride,
Trying to hollar at me.
I don't want no scrub,
A scrub is a guy that can't get no love from me,
Hanging out the passenger side,
Of his best friends ride,
Trying to hollar at me.
And a scrubs is checkin' me,
But his game is kinda weak,
And I know he can't approach me,
Cause I"m looking like class and he's looking like trash,
Can't get wit' a deadbeat (deadbeat)
So...(no)
I don't want your number (no)
I don't wanna give you mine and (no)
I don't wanna meet you no where (no)
I don't want none of your time and (no)
I don't want no scrub,
A scrub is a guy that can't get no love from me,
Hanging out the passenger side,
Of his best friends ride,
Trying to hollar at me.
I don't want no scrub,
A scrub is a guy that can't get no love from me,
Hanging out the passenger side,
Of his best friends ride,
Trying to hollar at me.
If you don't have a car and you're walking
Oh yes son, I'm talking to you,
You live at home with your momma (I'm talking to you)
Oh yes son, I'm talking to you,
You have a shorty but you don't show no love,
Oh yes son, I'm talking to you,Wanna get me with no money,
Oh no, I don't want no, oh
No scrub, no scrub, no no,
No scrub, no scrub, no no,
I don't want no scrub,
A scrub is a guy that can't get no love from me,
Hanging out the passenger side,
Of his best friends ride,
Trying to hollar at me.
I don't want no scrub,
A scrub is a guy that can't get no love from me,
Hanging out the passenger side,
Of his best friends ride,
Trying to hollar at me.
Lyrics:
A scrub is a guy that thinks hes fine and is also known as a buster
Always thinkin' about what he wants
He just sits on his (oh his, on his, on his)
So...(no)
I don't want your number (no)
I don't wanna give you mine and (no)
I don't wanna meet you no where (no)
I don't want none of your time and (no)
I don't want no scrub,
A scrub is a guy that can't get no love from me,
Hanging out the passenger side,
Of his best friends ride,
Trying to hollar at me.
I don't want no scrub,
A scrub is a guy that can't get no love from me,
Hanging out the passenger side,
Of his best friends ride,
Trying to hollar at me.
And a scrubs is checkin' me,
But his game is kinda weak,
And I know he can't approach me,
Cause I"m looking like class and he's looking like trash,
Can't get wit' a deadbeat (deadbeat)
So...(no)
I don't want your number (no)
I don't wanna give you mine and (no)
I don't wanna meet you no where (no)
I don't want none of your time and (no)
I don't want no scrub,
A scrub is a guy that can't get no love from me,
Hanging out the passenger side,
Of his best friends ride,
Trying to hollar at me.
I don't want no scrub,
A scrub is a guy that can't get no love from me,
Hanging out the passenger side,
Of his best friends ride,
Trying to hollar at me.
If you don't have a car and you're walking
Oh yes son, I'm talking to you,
You live at home with your momma (I'm talking to you)
Oh yes son, I'm talking to you,
You have a shorty but you don't show no love,
Oh yes son, I'm talking to you,Wanna get me with no money,
Oh no, I don't want no, oh
No scrub, no scrub, no no,
No scrub, no scrub, no no,
I don't want no scrub,
A scrub is a guy that can't get no love from me,
Hanging out the passenger side,
Of his best friends ride,
Trying to hollar at me.
I don't want no scrub,
A scrub is a guy that can't get no love from me,
Hanging out the passenger side,
Of his best friends ride,
Trying to hollar at me.
Saturday, November 20, 2010
The Girls in the Band
It all began when I saw four females holding their own instruments, playing them and putting the negative connotation in the term ‘girl band’ to shame. When I saw The Donnas on Fuse for the first time, I saw female collaboration, energy, passion and essentially everything I had ever wanted to become in tenth grade. They were not only the representation of the semi-badass female musician who I aspired to be, but also the model of female strength and empowerment which I had so longed for.
When I conjured up the idea to form a band, I wanted it to be comprised of only female musicians. After seeing The Donnas on TV and obsessing over their music videos, I knew this idea was not insane, not crazy, but rather possible. Of course I had played with guys in the past, but there was something different in the kind of energy created when I had played with all females. They weren’t looking to make fun of the fact I was holding a bass half my size or comment about how I looked instead of how well I had executed a riff. They took me seriously, as I treated them the same.
The Donnas hea
vily influenced my vision of our band. They created a fun, energetic and upbeat sound by using more than just power chords. I studied their guitar solos and bass lines for hours on end, focusing on the key chords being used, and the different ways in which the solos accented the overall sound of the song. In their music video, “Take it off,” the girls are performing at a school Battle of the Bands show, after a bunch of guys. This video specifically influenced me in the sense that when our band, Blush played a show, we were always the only all-female performance. I loved seeing The Donnas on that stage because I could relate to them, to what they were doing and to what they represented.The Donnas are still one of my favorite music groups today. Although my taste is generally a little bit more on the punk side, no other punk band could have influenced me the way The Donnas did. When the only thing I wanted was to start an all-girl band, and prove that I could do what all the other boys did, The Donnas showed me I could.
Destiny's Child
"Hey ladies why is it that men can go do us wrong
Why is it that we just decide to keep holdin' on
Why is it that we never seem to just have the strength to leave
But he's got to go, he's got to go" - Hey Ladies, Destiny's Child
"After all of the darkness and sadness,
Still comes happiness,
If I surround myself with positive things,I'll gain prosperity." -Survivor, Destiny's Child
"All the women who are independent
Throw your hands up at me
All the honeys who makin' money
Throw your hands up at me
All the mommas who profit dollas
Throw your hands up at meAll the ladies who truly feel me
Throw your hands up at me" -Independent Woman, Destiny's Child
Destiny's Child an all group R&B group active from 1997-2006 may seem like just an average pop sensation. However, I believe their music was more than that. Destiny's Child to me represented a modern day "Supremes". Their music was unique in the 3 part harmonies, Christian influences and in lyrics. When the band was active, there were not many black female artists that promoted positive messages about female empowerment. Other black artists of their time were, Lil Kim (highly sexualized, profane lyrics), TLC (many events happened outside of their musical life that were highly criticized), and Missy Elliot (also profane and had messages of drug and alcohol abuse). Other artists that were positively viewed such as Mariah Carey, Aaliyah, and Alicia Keyes often failed to gain as large of an audience and did not often promote messages of sisterhood, independence, strength and perseverance as Destiny's Child once did.
Destiny's Child also embraced the curvaceous female form. They wore clothing that was minimally revealing as compared to their musical peers but did present their natural selves in a positive, sexually liberating fashion, see below
Destiny's Child also united women in a sisterhood that many artists of their time did not. They boasted sisterhood and putting female friends before male partners. An example of this is the video below:
This song encouraged women (and men) to live lives outside of their romantic relationship. A very positive message for the adolescent women that listened to this music. Although their music may not be touted as intellectual, enlightening or artsy it marketed a message to young women and girls that they normally do not hear in the music industry.
Destiny's Child also paved the way for Beyonce to continue her legacy as a powerful black female artist. This band helped her break into the music industry and has led to more influential, positive, female empowering music.
Why is it that we just decide to keep holdin' on
Why is it that we never seem to just have the strength to leave
But he's got to go, he's got to go" - Hey Ladies, Destiny's Child
"After all of the darkness and sadness,
Still comes happiness,
If I surround myself with positive things,I'll gain prosperity." -Survivor, Destiny's Child
"All the women who are independent
Throw your hands up at me
All the honeys who makin' money
Throw your hands up at me
All the mommas who profit dollas
Throw your hands up at meAll the ladies who truly feel me
Throw your hands up at me" -Independent Woman, Destiny's Child
Destiny's Child an all group R&B group active from 1997-2006 may seem like just an average pop sensation. However, I believe their music was more than that. Destiny's Child to me represented a modern day "Supremes". Their music was unique in the 3 part harmonies, Christian influences and in lyrics. When the band was active, there were not many black female artists that promoted positive messages about female empowerment. Other black artists of their time were, Lil Kim (highly sexualized, profane lyrics), TLC (many events happened outside of their musical life that were highly criticized), and Missy Elliot (also profane and had messages of drug and alcohol abuse). Other artists that were positively viewed such as Mariah Carey, Aaliyah, and Alicia Keyes often failed to gain as large of an audience and did not often promote messages of sisterhood, independence, strength and perseverance as Destiny's Child once did.
Destiny's Child also embraced the curvaceous female form. They wore clothing that was minimally revealing as compared to their musical peers but did present their natural selves in a positive, sexually liberating fashion, see below
Destiny's Child also united women in a sisterhood that many artists of their time did not. They boasted sisterhood and putting female friends before male partners. An example of this is the video below:
This song encouraged women (and men) to live lives outside of their romantic relationship. A very positive message for the adolescent women that listened to this music. Although their music may not be touted as intellectual, enlightening or artsy it marketed a message to young women and girls that they normally do not hear in the music industry.
Destiny's Child also paved the way for Beyonce to continue her legacy as a powerful black female artist. This band helped her break into the music industry and has led to more influential, positive, female empowering music.
Womanizer!
Britney Spears has been one of the most significant women in pop music for the past ten years. At age 16, she became a sensation not just through her music, but also her innocent, sexy, and not-quite-legal demeanor. Posing as a Catholic school girl, a flight attendant, a hot Martian, and a belly dancer in some of her music videos shows her desires to make an impact through her videos and appearance. In “Me Against the Music” Britney and Madonna represent a lesbian relationship where Madonna is portrayed as the man (carrying a cane, masculine dress). The two share an almost passionate kiss when Madonna vanishes nowhere to be found. Not only have Britney’s music videos been on edge, but her life has been what some may describe as chaotic. A bad breakup with NSYNC front man Justin Timberlake, marrying someone to get it annulled within fifty hours, having a divorce from the father of her two children, and shaving her head have been some of the more extreme parts of Britney’s life.
Britney has been a pop culture icon. Recently, the hit television show GLEE did an entire episode based off of the music and music videos of Britney Spears, and named one of their characters Britney S. Pearce.
Britney’s song WOMANIZER is one that stands out to me:
Superstar
Where you from, hows it going?
I know you
Gotta clue, what you're doing?
You can play brand new to all the other chicks out here
But I know what you are, what you are, baby
Look at you
Gettin more than just re-up
Baby, you
Got all the puppets with their strings up
Faking like a good one, but I call 'em like I see 'em
I know what you are, what you are, baby
Womanizer, Woman, Womanizer
You're a Womanizer, oh Womanizer oh
You're a Womanizer, baby
You you you are, You you you are
Womanizer, Womanizer, Womanizer (Womanizer)
Boy, don't try to front
I know just what you are
Boy, don't try to front
I know just what you are
You got me goin'
You're oh so charmin'
But I can do it
Womanizer
Boy, don't try to front
I know just what you are
Boy, don't try to front
I know just what you are
You say I'm crazy
I got your crazy
You're nothin' but a
Womanizer
Daddy-O
You got the swagger of champion
Too bad for you
You just cant find the right companion
I guess when you have one too many, makes it hard
It could be easy, who you are
That's just who you are, baby
Lollipop
Must mistake me, you're a sucker
To think that I
Would be a victim not another
Say it, play it how you wanna
But no way I'm ever gonna fall for you, never you, baby
Womanizer, Woman, Womanizer
You're a Womanizer, oh Womanizer oh
You're a Womanizer, baby
You you you are, You you you are
Womanizer, Womanizer, Womanizer
(Womanizer)
Boy, don't try to front
I know just what you are
Boy, don't try to front
I know just what you are
You say I'm crazy
I got your crazy
You're nothin' but a
Womanizer
Maybe if we both lived in a different world
(Womanizer, Womanizer, Womanizer, Womanizer)
It would be all good, and maybe I could be your girl, but I can't cause we don't
Womanizer, Woman, Womanizer
You're a Womanizer, oh Womanizer oh
You're a Womanizer, baby
You you you are, you you you are
Womanizer, Womanizer, Womanizer
(Womanizer)
Boy, don't try to front
I know just what you are
Boy, don't try to front
I know just what you are
You got me goin'
You're oh so charmin'
But I can do it
Womanizer
Friday, November 19, 2010
The Feminist is a Vamp
“My time is precious. Don’t waste it...If I don’t like you, I’ll leave...It’s easy to just take, but you have to give, too...if you want me, you have to want my friends, too.”Le Tigre? Bikini Kill? You might think. But no. Those lyrics are reworded from...”Wannabe”. By the Spice Girls. Yes, those pop tarts, those purveyors of the often-hated-by-feminists girl power. It turns out that underneath the short skirts and makeup and superficiality are real, true feminist statements. It’s not just “Wannabe” that has them, although it’s worth noting that their most famous song is about how a guy has to not “bug” them, must be good to their friends, and has to give, not just take.
The Spice Girls are the biggest female group of all time. But more than that, they were absurdly successful, period. When they did a reunion tour, tickets to their London show sold out in--wait for it--38 seconds. (I personally managed via Facebook’s marketplace to get a pair of nosebleed seats, for an absurd amount of money, and drove down to see them in New Jersey and it was fantastic.) If nothing else, the Girls showed up and said to the world that women can be successful, women can inspire tens of millions of record sales, and hordes of screaming fans, and, dammit, they can look good while doing it.
While I recognize the criticisms of the Spice Girls--like that they’re overly concerned with their appearance and that “girl power” isn’t feminism at all but just a great way to sell records--and while I think that those criticisms have some legitimacy, I also think that the lyrics are what stick. I got my first Spice Girls album in probably 1996 or 1997. I can’t tell you what they were wearing. (Other than that I assume sky-high shoes were involved.) I can’t tell you who their boyfriends were (actually, I don’t think they had boyfriends at the time, and I know Geri “Ginger Spice” Halliwell was a single mother later on). What I can tell you is what they said. I can tell you that 8-year-old me heard that it was okay to say “What part of no don't you understand?” (“Too Much”), and that “she knows just what to do” (“Lady is a Vamp”), and one that I would understand better later on: that I would think my mama was “my only enemy,” but that really “every little thing [she] ever said and did was right for me” (“Mama”).
And yeah, I listened BECAUSE they were all wrapped up in pop; I wouldn’t have cared about Riot Grrrls. But the message I took away was real, and powerful, and one nobody else was giving, or has given since.
Tuesday, November 16, 2010
"The Look of Power"
Not shockingly, I’ve been extremely excited to read the novel, Enlightened Sexism by Susan J. Douglas, as it is currently runner-up on my reading list. However, I was really surprised to find that Douglas discusses the new notion that what makes a woman so powerful is not only her job position, but also how beautiful, sexy and thin she looks. A huge problem with our generation is that while we frequently see women in powerful career positions, we come to believe that what makes them so powerful is not the career which the woman holds itself but rather, how attractive or manipulative the female character is in that role.
In my study of Women and Philosophy, I wrote my final paper on this issue because I thought that not only is it so prevalent and alluring to young women, but also at the same time so inherently counter-feminist and counterproductive of equal treatment. I labeled it, “the look of power,” because popular movies and advertisements send the message that power is achievable for women, but it requires exhausting efforts to constantly be beautiful and awe the eyes of spectating coworkers. “The look of power” reinforces the demands that a patriarchal culture places on women for the appeasement of men. This notion/phenomena is worse than a typical double standard placed on women, because it’s being promoted as a necessary quality of a truly powerful woman.
I think that equality in the workforce will not result from women who can function as smart and articulate Barbie dolls. Isn’t it odd though, as that precise image instantly comes to mind when I envision a young, powerful working woman?
In my study of Women and Philosophy, I wrote my final paper on this issue because I thought that not only is it so prevalent and alluring to young women, but also at the same time so inherently counter-feminist and counterproductive of equal treatment. I labeled it, “the look of power,” because popular movies and advertisements send the message that power is achievable for women, but it requires exhausting efforts to constantly be beautiful and awe the eyes of spectating coworkers. “The look of power” reinforces the demands that a patriarchal culture places on women for the appeasement of men. This notion/phenomena is worse than a typical double standard placed on women, because it’s being promoted as a necessary quality of a truly powerful woman.
I think that equality in the workforce will not result from women who can function as smart and articulate Barbie dolls. Isn’t it odd though, as that precise image instantly comes to mind when I envision a young, powerful working woman?
You probably think this post is about you...
Chances are I will soon change my mind, but the song I chose was Carly Simon's 1972 sensation "You're So Vain." I chose this song because as far as I know, it was one of the first real "f[orget] you" songs. Of the music I am accustomed to listening to (which can loosely be defined as mostly oldies and light rock from the 1950s to today), most female singers until the 1970s would only express heartbreak and regret at being cheated on and forced to break up with someone they once loved. However, Carly Simon quickly scorns the ego of this one particular man, and because no one knows who the man she's referencing is, it remains one of the top cultural mysteries today. Also, for reference, the 'gavotte' is some sort of dance move.
You walked into the party
Like you were walking onto a yacht
Your hat strategically dipped below one eye
Your scarf it was apricot
You had one eye in the mirror
As you watched yourself gavotte
And all the girls dreamed that they'd be your partner
They'd be your partner, and
You're so vain
You probably think this song is about you
You're so vain
I'll bet you think this song is about you
Don't you? Don't you?
You had me several years ago
When I was still quite naive
Well, you said that we made such a pretty pair
And that you would never leave
But you gave away the things you loved
And one of them was me
I had some dreams they were clouds in my coffee
Clouds in my coffee, and
You're so vain
You probably think this song is about you
You're so vain
I'll bet you think this song is about you
Don't you? Don't you?
I had some dreams they were clouds in my coffee
Clouds in my coffee, and
You're so vain
You probably think this song is about you
You're so vain
I'll bet you think this song is about you
Don't you? Don't you?
Well, I hear you went up to Saratoga
And your horse naturally won
Then you flew your Lear jet up to Nova Scotia
To see the total eclipse of the sun
Well, you're where you should be all the time
And when you're not, you're with
Some underworld spy or the wife of a close friend
Wife of a close friend, and
You're so vain
You probably think this song is about you
You're so vain
I'll bet you think this song is about you
Don't you? Don't you? Don't you?
You're so vain
You probably think this song is about you
You're so vain
You probably think this song is about you
You're so vain
You probably think this song is about you
You're so vain (so vain)
I'll bet you think this song is about you
Don't you? Don't you? Don't you?
The song is mostly about how Carly fell in love at one point with a man who is so full of himself and incredibly vain because everyone wants to emulate or be with him in public. Yet at one point Carly fell for him when she was young and "naive," and believed him when he promised that they would stay together, until he got bored and dumped her. Thus, Carly is still bitter at how he ruined her dreams, ("clouds in her coffee" that dissipated as she matured). But in the song she claims revenge by stating that she's kept up with his life, but knows that behind the press is a life of lies and deceit. When not in the public eye, he is "with some underworld spy or the wife of a close friend" (cheating). The underworld spy is the only thing that I still remain confused on. Was she implying that he was consorting with Communists? Despite this, the man has no regrets and still lives the privileged, perfect life he did when Carly met him, and would feel honored that she wrote a song about him.
This song is relevant to our class because while Carly doesn't explicitly state the man's name, she's clearly bashing him and this song acted as a venting mechanism for that. Still, while her intention was to bash his ego, he would still probably feel smug that she wrote a song about their history together. Additionally, as far as I know, not many songs before this one had this bashing mentality; the songs prior to this were more "woe is me" than "I grew up, I got over it, and I still hate you."
You walked into the party
Like you were walking onto a yacht
Your hat strategically dipped below one eye
Your scarf it was apricot
You had one eye in the mirror
As you watched yourself gavotte
And all the girls dreamed that they'd be your partner
They'd be your partner, and
You're so vain
You probably think this song is about you
You're so vain
I'll bet you think this song is about you
Don't you? Don't you?
You had me several years ago
When I was still quite naive
Well, you said that we made such a pretty pair
And that you would never leave
But you gave away the things you loved
And one of them was me
I had some dreams they were clouds in my coffee
Clouds in my coffee, and
You're so vain
You probably think this song is about you
You're so vain
I'll bet you think this song is about you
Don't you? Don't you?
I had some dreams they were clouds in my coffee
Clouds in my coffee, and
You're so vain
You probably think this song is about you
You're so vain
I'll bet you think this song is about you
Don't you? Don't you?
Well, I hear you went up to Saratoga
And your horse naturally won
Then you flew your Lear jet up to Nova Scotia
To see the total eclipse of the sun
Well, you're where you should be all the time
And when you're not, you're with
Some underworld spy or the wife of a close friend
Wife of a close friend, and
You're so vain
You probably think this song is about you
You're so vain
I'll bet you think this song is about you
Don't you? Don't you? Don't you?
You're so vain
You probably think this song is about you
You're so vain
You probably think this song is about you
You're so vain
You probably think this song is about you
You're so vain (so vain)
I'll bet you think this song is about you
Don't you? Don't you? Don't you?
The song is mostly about how Carly fell in love at one point with a man who is so full of himself and incredibly vain because everyone wants to emulate or be with him in public. Yet at one point Carly fell for him when she was young and "naive," and believed him when he promised that they would stay together, until he got bored and dumped her. Thus, Carly is still bitter at how he ruined her dreams, ("clouds in her coffee" that dissipated as she matured). But in the song she claims revenge by stating that she's kept up with his life, but knows that behind the press is a life of lies and deceit. When not in the public eye, he is "with some underworld spy or the wife of a close friend" (cheating). The underworld spy is the only thing that I still remain confused on. Was she implying that he was consorting with Communists? Despite this, the man has no regrets and still lives the privileged, perfect life he did when Carly met him, and would feel honored that she wrote a song about him.
This song is relevant to our class because while Carly doesn't explicitly state the man's name, she's clearly bashing him and this song acted as a venting mechanism for that. Still, while her intention was to bash his ego, he would still probably feel smug that she wrote a song about their history together. Additionally, as far as I know, not many songs before this one had this bashing mentality; the songs prior to this were more "woe is me" than "I grew up, I got over it, and I still hate you."
Monday, November 15, 2010
Music Assignment: Marilyn Manson
The artist that I would like to give credit to for this assignment is Marilyn Manson. He is one of my favorite artists because of his unique lyrics and style of appearance. When looking at his appearance, you never really know how he is going to come out dressed. He has an array of styles from wearing a suit and tie, to S&M, to clothing that makes you uncertain whether or not he is a male. He is not afraid to be who ever he wants to be, and really doesn't care what other people think. His on stage presence is quite interesting, and again, you never really know what to expect from him. He puts his hands down his pants, rubs things in his crotch area, pretends to be having sex with the microphone, and girls and other audience members are still reaching out to him to touch him, since he is seen as an idol to many. The interesting thing however, is the way the rest of his band members are dressed. They might have similiar outfits to Manson, but you always can tell that they are men. Manson is putting on a show for his audience as he performs and it is an experience that many are willing to experience, even if he is dressing in gender-bender ways.
One song of his that I would like to point out is called "Doll-Dagga Buzz-Buzz Ziggety-Zag." Some of the lyrics are:
All the goose step girlies
with the cursive faces
We know it's all Braile beneath their skirts
I'm bulletproof bizzop and swing heil and
I don't really care what gentlemen prefer
Say, all you pin-down girls and
Bonafide ballers, so manically depressed
And manically dressed
We got our "Venus not in furs"
but "in Uniforms"
If you're not dancing, then you're dead
Doll-dagga buzz-buzz ziggety-zag
Godmod grotesque burlesque drag
Doll-dagga buzz-buzz ziggety-zag
Godmod grotesque burlesque drag
The reason why I wanted to point this song out is because it is one of the more unique songs that I thought fits the topic of gender. The lyrics speak for themselves pretty much. I just find this song to be interesting because Manson is not afraid to wear clothing that makes him look feminine and so this song fits with how he portrays himself sometimes.
Another song that I just want to make mention to is "The Golden Age of Grotesque." I also think this song fits in with our topic.
The devils are girls with Van Gogh's missing ear
You say what you want but filth is all that they hear
I've got the jigger to make all you bigger
Ladies und gentlemen
So drop your pissroom mate, and make sure you're not late
You tramps and lunatics
Here's a trick that's gonna make you click
We're the low Art Gloominati, and we aim to depress
The scabaret sacrilegends
This is the Golden Age of Grotesque
Popular Music Blog Post Assignment
Okay, here's the idea:
Create a blog post, between 300-400 words, in which you explore ONE song, artist, or album which, to you, expresses something unique, out of the ordinary, or significant related to women or gender in popular music. Maybe you're intrigued by the way an artist utilizes suggestive lyrics. Maybe a band has a gender-bending on-stage persona. Maybe a particular songwriter has a strong feminist voice in her lyrics. Maybe a musician is known for creating iconic sounds or looks that challenge the cultural status quo.
You may address any era or genre of music. You can include images if you want: use the photo icon to download saved images from your computer (this is preferable to using site URLS). You may also embed links or URLS.
Englightened Feminism response
If ever there was an article I wished I could plaster around every common place on this campus, this is it. This article successfully highlights so many truths about our society, how feminists are viewed and what girls are taught/brainwashed into believing. Yes, you can become a lawyer like Elle Woods in Legally Blonde, but don't expect your story to go like hers. And how did she get into Harvard anyway? By using her natural assets to convince the male Harvard admissions panel to "diversify" their student demographics. But when you graduate from law school girls, don't expect to be as immediately successful as her or begin your own company. No, that creepy old guy who hit on you probably would be your boss, or another guy just like him.
Like the example given above, when I read this article I began to think about the role models and ideals that the media began giving to girls around my age (and slightly younger) as we were growing up. For starters, we had the beautiful Elle Woods, the Bratz dolls (a very popular line of questionable dolls, who--in their defense--were supposed to become famous fashion designers and models), Anne Hathaway in the Princess Diaries (who was still a wonderful, intelligent person who had to abandon her looks to conform to the royalty image), etc. Meanwhile, certain rappers and musicians began to glorify and objectify the female body in all of their lyrics and videos, so that those subtly coded lyrics became all too clear once you flipped the channel to Vh1 or MTV. And did the parents still buy these products? Oh yes they did.
So as the article mentioned, the companies and media successfully "bought both girls and women off" by presenting the image of wholesome or fun or hip products, while letting its true colors show to the young girl/teenage population. What was once inexcusable became hidden by the flashy lights, hip beats and "fun" dialogue emanating from the product. Thus, although the media started this whole bad-mouthing of feminism, the complacency and lack of authority on the parent's part to look over what was being advertised to their children, as well as our own susceptibility to these gimmicks, is what led to this problem in the first place.
I really wish more people paid attention to what was being presented to them instead of blatantly saying "I like it" and then buying it...or buying into it.
Like the example given above, when I read this article I began to think about the role models and ideals that the media began giving to girls around my age (and slightly younger) as we were growing up. For starters, we had the beautiful Elle Woods, the Bratz dolls (a very popular line of questionable dolls, who--in their defense--were supposed to become famous fashion designers and models), Anne Hathaway in the Princess Diaries (who was still a wonderful, intelligent person who had to abandon her looks to conform to the royalty image), etc. Meanwhile, certain rappers and musicians began to glorify and objectify the female body in all of their lyrics and videos, so that those subtly coded lyrics became all too clear once you flipped the channel to Vh1 or MTV. And did the parents still buy these products? Oh yes they did.
So as the article mentioned, the companies and media successfully "bought both girls and women off" by presenting the image of wholesome or fun or hip products, while letting its true colors show to the young girl/teenage population. What was once inexcusable became hidden by the flashy lights, hip beats and "fun" dialogue emanating from the product. Thus, although the media started this whole bad-mouthing of feminism, the complacency and lack of authority on the parent's part to look over what was being advertised to their children, as well as our own susceptibility to these gimmicks, is what led to this problem in the first place.
I really wish more people paid attention to what was being presented to them instead of blatantly saying "I like it" and then buying it...or buying into it.
Enlightened Sexism
I've often thought the very things that Douglas discusses here. We are told that we can be anything, but we clearly cannot, and we are clearly still held to standards far more exacting than men are. The idea that feminism is bad continues to surprise me a bit; I was raised in a feminist household, around feminists, and until I was in my teens I truly believed that it was just settled that feminism was a good thing that helped women.
Douglas refers to the "seductive message" that we are given, the one which claims women have achieved full equality. It is seductive. And empowering. It's empowering to say, I'm as good as a man and I can do anything a man can do. The problem is, it's bullshit. The first part isn't true in society's eyes, and the second part isn't true in society, period. It makes us feel good, but it makes us complacent, too. We need to keep fighting for equality, and believing that we already have it discourages that fight.
Response to: Rise of Enlightened Sexism
After reading this article, I started to think of the small number of shows I enjoy watching. Most of them have men characters that are in control, and some have female characters that are able to assert themselves. But there is one show that I like that fits what this article is talkking about perfectly, "Bones." The main character is a woman who is very smart and good looking, her boss is also a woman and very good looking and her co-workers are a mix of women and men. The main character is shown through every season as single and not interested in having a relationship. Her co-workers try to get her to become involved in a relationship, but she is to interested in her work. This is showing that a women with her type of job which is an anthropologist, cant get involved with anyone intimately because it could jeapordize her career. It is a trade-off, career over a relationship.
I am sure this is not the only show that has this in it. And what is this teaching the women in our society? That we have to chose a decent career over having a relationship, a sex life, a love life, a family. Then there is the idea that we have to still look good no matter what we do. How can we be happy with ourselves if the media is pushing the idea on us that we have to please men and that we have to have the ideal body and wear the ideal clothes. I am personally sick of the media, and wish that our society would take a stand against this. More women need to show that they are beautiful inside and out, no matter what and that they don't need to please men to get ahead in life. But until this happens, women will continue to be under men and will have to find ways to live happily while having to please them.
I am sure this is not the only show that has this in it. And what is this teaching the women in our society? That we have to chose a decent career over having a relationship, a sex life, a love life, a family. Then there is the idea that we have to still look good no matter what we do. How can we be happy with ourselves if the media is pushing the idea on us that we have to please men and that we have to have the ideal body and wear the ideal clothes. I am personally sick of the media, and wish that our society would take a stand against this. More women need to show that they are beautiful inside and out, no matter what and that they don't need to please men to get ahead in life. But until this happens, women will continue to be under men and will have to find ways to live happily while having to please them.
Sunday, November 14, 2010
'The Rise of Enlightened Sexism'
An interesting article: 'The Rise of Enlightened Sexism' by Susan Douglas, from the On the Issues website. There are some very provocative ideas explored in it. I'd be interested to hear responses.
A brief excerpt: "What the media have been giving us then over the past fifteen years are fantasies of power. These fantasies assure girls and women, repeatedly, that women's liberation is a fait accompli and that we are stronger, more successful, more sexually in control, more fearless, and more held in awe than we actually are. Fantasies of power urge us to pretend that any woman can become a CEO (or president), and that women have achieved economic, professional and political parity with men. Yet fantasies of power also insist that purchasing power and sexual power are much more gratifying than political or economic power. Buying stuff -- the right stuff, a lot of stuff -- emerged as the dominant way to enact being an empowered female."
A brief excerpt: "What the media have been giving us then over the past fifteen years are fantasies of power. These fantasies assure girls and women, repeatedly, that women's liberation is a fait accompli and that we are stronger, more successful, more sexually in control, more fearless, and more held in awe than we actually are. Fantasies of power urge us to pretend that any woman can become a CEO (or president), and that women have achieved economic, professional and political parity with men. Yet fantasies of power also insist that purchasing power and sexual power are much more gratifying than political or economic power. Buying stuff -- the right stuff, a lot of stuff -- emerged as the dominant way to enact being an empowered female."
Friday, November 12, 2010
"For Colored Girls" film review (directed by Tyler Perry)
****** The following review is likely to contain SPOILERS and notes on GRAPHIC CONTENT. You have been warned *******
As promised, here is my review of Tyler Perry's newest film, "For Colored Girls."
Going into "For Colored Girls" at the Madison Theater with two of my friends, my first observation was that hardly anybody was there. In the entire theater, it was only myself, my two other white friends, and about five to seven African-American/black movie goers. Although this was a fairly interesting observation, it does not really hold any significance, other than my two friends and I were clearly not a part of the target audience.
Regardless, a few things that I liked about this film (that differed from the 1982 PBS-affiliated film) were that all the women were connected in some way. The majority of the women in the film lived in the same run-down apartment complex, while others were employees, mentors or friends of those who lived in the building. Also, all of these women had names, professions and personalities, so they were easier to relate to, and while the poems did not always seamlessly fit into the narrative, they were more fluent than before. I also liked the addition of Janet Jackson's character, the self absorbed head executive of the stylish "Robe Rouge" magazine (think The Devil Wears Prada). Although I forget the character's name, I feel that she was added as a representation of the modern (black) woman who has acheived greatness, but at the same time lost her roots while fighting to get to the top. In the beginning of the movie, I liked when Juanita, the nurse who runs a women's center and has had an affair with a man for several years, tries to come to Jackson's character (Joanne) asking for a donation to her center. Joanne completely refuses to listen to her plea, so Juanita gives Jo a piece of her mind, especially after waiting in the office for two hours, only to be shot down within three minutes. At this point, Juanita exclaims that she is sick of being in the office, because of how "white" everything is. It was at that point that I noticed exactly *how* white it all was...the furniture, desks, walls, ceilings...even Jo's outfit was white. It was a symbol of how sterile and conformist the offie was, because in that office no one had any personality or attachment to their roots and culture--it was all about the big corporate identity that they all shared for this magazine. (Later on in the film, however, when Jo's employee's boyfriend drops their two children out the window and Jo witnesses it, does her personality become more soft and conflicted as her personal life escalates and she discovers that her gay (cheating) husband gave her HIV/AIDS, does she wear red, the color for HIV awareness, as well as a symbol for dominance).
One thing I did not really expect was the rape scene among Yasmine, a dance instructor and her up-until-then respectable seeming boyfriend. Within a matter of sixty seconds we see this man go from nice guy off the street to a man unpeeling his shirt and stripping off his pants and boxers to the surprise of Yasmine and the audiene as he brutally rapes her. This scene in particular reminded me of the rape scene we saw on "The Last House on the Left", because throughout most of it we see Yasmine's tortured looking face as she's raped within her home by a man she thought she trusted. Meanwhie, the beautiful Cuban meal she was preparing from her youth was burning on the stove, just like the love she held for that man.
A few things I did not understand or didn't particularly like in this adaption was despite the nature of the film--which I perfectly understand--this film makes all black men out to be rapists, abusers and the like. There was only one black man who did not engage in violence, and that was the only legitimately married couple in the film (the social worker and her police officer husband). Otherwise, nearly any man mentioned on or off camera (such as Whoopi Goldberg's abusive father who also abused her eldest daughter) was portrayed in a negative light, and once again I can understand why, but it seemed to send a message other than "regain your pride as a black/colored woman. Believe in yourself and help each other." It seemed to be more like "if you want to be happy, a white man is your best bet." I hope these statements do not affend anyone, but that is the message I got out of the film.
Another issue I had with this film was that a few of the poems did not fluidly fit into the film, such as the butterfly poem told simulataneously by Whoopi Goldberg's religious character and her eldest daughter Thandie. The camera constantly cuts back and forth between the two, so you hear a part of the poem, murmurs of the rest of it in the background, and then another part while the other woman mimics the other (in mumbling). It feels largely disjointed and hard to follow and you also feel as if the meaning and purpose behind the poem is lost.
If anyone else has any comments on the film, questions about it or whatnot, feel free to comment. For the sake of length, what I mentioned above where only the highlights that I had wanted to discuss. Overall I felt that it was a very beautifully done film that probably needs repeat viewings to get the full picture (especially with the scenes like the one mentioned above). The cast is excellent, the color symbology is in full force, and it discusses subjects not often talked about in mainstream society today (especially mainstream films).
As promised, here is my review of Tyler Perry's newest film, "For Colored Girls."
Going into "For Colored Girls" at the Madison Theater with two of my friends, my first observation was that hardly anybody was there. In the entire theater, it was only myself, my two other white friends, and about five to seven African-American/black movie goers. Although this was a fairly interesting observation, it does not really hold any significance, other than my two friends and I were clearly not a part of the target audience.
Regardless, a few things that I liked about this film (that differed from the 1982 PBS-affiliated film) were that all the women were connected in some way. The majority of the women in the film lived in the same run-down apartment complex, while others were employees, mentors or friends of those who lived in the building. Also, all of these women had names, professions and personalities, so they were easier to relate to, and while the poems did not always seamlessly fit into the narrative, they were more fluent than before. I also liked the addition of Janet Jackson's character, the self absorbed head executive of the stylish "Robe Rouge" magazine (think The Devil Wears Prada). Although I forget the character's name, I feel that she was added as a representation of the modern (black) woman who has acheived greatness, but at the same time lost her roots while fighting to get to the top. In the beginning of the movie, I liked when Juanita, the nurse who runs a women's center and has had an affair with a man for several years, tries to come to Jackson's character (Joanne) asking for a donation to her center. Joanne completely refuses to listen to her plea, so Juanita gives Jo a piece of her mind, especially after waiting in the office for two hours, only to be shot down within three minutes. At this point, Juanita exclaims that she is sick of being in the office, because of how "white" everything is. It was at that point that I noticed exactly *how* white it all was...the furniture, desks, walls, ceilings...even Jo's outfit was white. It was a symbol of how sterile and conformist the offie was, because in that office no one had any personality or attachment to their roots and culture--it was all about the big corporate identity that they all shared for this magazine. (Later on in the film, however, when Jo's employee's boyfriend drops their two children out the window and Jo witnesses it, does her personality become more soft and conflicted as her personal life escalates and she discovers that her gay (cheating) husband gave her HIV/AIDS, does she wear red, the color for HIV awareness, as well as a symbol for dominance).
One thing I did not really expect was the rape scene among Yasmine, a dance instructor and her up-until-then respectable seeming boyfriend. Within a matter of sixty seconds we see this man go from nice guy off the street to a man unpeeling his shirt and stripping off his pants and boxers to the surprise of Yasmine and the audiene as he brutally rapes her. This scene in particular reminded me of the rape scene we saw on "The Last House on the Left", because throughout most of it we see Yasmine's tortured looking face as she's raped within her home by a man she thought she trusted. Meanwhie, the beautiful Cuban meal she was preparing from her youth was burning on the stove, just like the love she held for that man.
A few things I did not understand or didn't particularly like in this adaption was despite the nature of the film--which I perfectly understand--this film makes all black men out to be rapists, abusers and the like. There was only one black man who did not engage in violence, and that was the only legitimately married couple in the film (the social worker and her police officer husband). Otherwise, nearly any man mentioned on or off camera (such as Whoopi Goldberg's abusive father who also abused her eldest daughter) was portrayed in a negative light, and once again I can understand why, but it seemed to send a message other than "regain your pride as a black/colored woman. Believe in yourself and help each other." It seemed to be more like "if you want to be happy, a white man is your best bet." I hope these statements do not affend anyone, but that is the message I got out of the film.
Another issue I had with this film was that a few of the poems did not fluidly fit into the film, such as the butterfly poem told simulataneously by Whoopi Goldberg's religious character and her eldest daughter Thandie. The camera constantly cuts back and forth between the two, so you hear a part of the poem, murmurs of the rest of it in the background, and then another part while the other woman mimics the other (in mumbling). It feels largely disjointed and hard to follow and you also feel as if the meaning and purpose behind the poem is lost.
If anyone else has any comments on the film, questions about it or whatnot, feel free to comment. For the sake of length, what I mentioned above where only the highlights that I had wanted to discuss. Overall I felt that it was a very beautifully done film that probably needs repeat viewings to get the full picture (especially with the scenes like the one mentioned above). The cast is excellent, the color symbology is in full force, and it discusses subjects not often talked about in mainstream society today (especially mainstream films).
Wednesday, November 10, 2010
Community Episode - Aerodynamics of Gender
A friend of mine showed me this for some comical relief for a stressful week. What do you ladies think of this episode? I haven't watched the show before...but I think even though it seems to be very stereotypical, it does make a point of how women treat each other.
Tuesday, November 9, 2010
Red top
Immediately after getting home I hit IMDb to read more about Hard Candy. Fascinatingly, one of the FAQs asked if the red top had any significance and the answer was...
The answer is most emphatically no. The director David Slade states in his commentary that they did not have a large budget for clothing. The clothes for Patrick took up all the budget and, because of the colour scheme of the rooms, only red would show up significantly. David states (but may have been exaggerating) that they only had $20 left, and this left the costume designer with only one item on the rack, a hooded top.While there was no initial significance to the red hoodie, a meaning came to it after, with many viewers seeing it as an allusion to Hayley being Little Red Riding Hood. The foreign marketing for the film made use of that allusion by using it in advertising. Japan's website tagline is, "Red Hood Traps The Wolf In His Own Game." Also inspired by the red hoodie worn in the film, a website for online safety and enpowerment was formed. The website is: wear-red.com.The hoodie was originally orange and was changed to red later in post-production. The hoodie actually belonged to Ellen Page.
Given that a random fan posted that, I did a little more digging and the entire internet agrees that, according to the director, the top was completely coincidental.
So what do we think about that, about the fact that we jumped to a fairy tale? Many, many people came up with the same conclusion. Is it a desire to see a fairy tale, a symbol of our childhood, inverted? Or something more? Thoughts?
Monday, November 8, 2010
"For Colored Girls" at the Madison Theater
Hey everyone,
The Women's Initiative managed to get reduced ticket price for Tyler Perry's new film "For Colored Girls" at the Madison Theater! Just show your Saint Rose ID this week (until Friday) and you only have to pay $6.50 to see the movie!
BE FOREWARNED though, that it is supposed to be exceptionally violent, with rape scenes, small children getting hurt and/or killed. This particular film is rated R for a very good reason, but if you think you can stomach it, I think it's going to be fantastic. I'll post a review within the next few days to let you see my thoughts.
Here's the official trailer:
http://www.theroot.com/buzz/colored-girls-tyler-perrys-official-trailer
The Women's Initiative managed to get reduced ticket price for Tyler Perry's new film "For Colored Girls" at the Madison Theater! Just show your Saint Rose ID this week (until Friday) and you only have to pay $6.50 to see the movie!
BE FOREWARNED though, that it is supposed to be exceptionally violent, with rape scenes, small children getting hurt and/or killed. This particular film is rated R for a very good reason, but if you think you can stomach it, I think it's going to be fantastic. I'll post a review within the next few days to let you see my thoughts.
Here's the official trailer:
http://www.theroot.com/buzz/colored-girls-tyler-perrys-official-trailer
Response to Why Feminists Need Porn
Concerning the distinction between art and porn, I agree with the article. One of the greatest differences between the two is the separate of private and public life. When people access porn it’s generally done in a private place, such as their own home. There they are able to behave outside of the view of society.
Art, however, is generally seen in a gallery. With galleries people walk in expecting to see art and therefore should be willing to look at the pieces as something with meaning. Also due to the setting people are expecting to behave in a respectful manner. Overall, galleries are meant to be an intellectually stimulating place.
This idea of something having meaning is yet another thing which porn lacks. As the author states, “Porn has no fixed narrative or truth. It turns us all into instant montage experts. Every video or magazine is a slippery stream of partial objects; a metonymic chain which mocks the earnest search for meaning as surely as it refuses us the perfect object of desire”, there is no real meaning to porn. It merely seeks to provide instant gratification to the viewer.
Sunday, November 7, 2010
Pornography, Feminism, Confusion
Pornography: Men possessing women
This article touched upon a lot of the personal conflict I feel about pornography: liberation, free will vs. confinement and oppression. The most interesting piece of the article for me was the area in which the author examines how sex work is not considered a human rights violation. It struck me when the author compared sex work to slavery and torture. It is not something that most think about in this severe of terms but it does feel appropriate when put in this context. The voice in this article stuck with me for days after reading and has made me think again deeper about the perpetual violation of women and girls. Not only is this not thought of in this way- but we are raised to believe that this IS an exception to sexual assault, rape or sexual violence. When in truth, I don't believe it is. I don't think that all women are consenting in the way that many people think they are.
A Feminist Argument Against Censorship:
I read a research study years ago that found that people who watch pornography become normalized to sexual violence and are less likely to be disturbed by sexually violent imagery, video, or real life experiences. Additionally, they are more likely to be in violent relationships. I understand that this is only one study with many of variables but I have always thought about it and it has shaped my opinion of the porn industry. I am inclined to say that most porn does not depict women in a liberating way and therefore does not challenge sexism or put forth the liberating sexual identity we, as feminists, are trying to create for women in media. I am inclined to say that I believe in some censorship because I hope that through it we will prevent people from becoming numb to violent behavior. This article has helped shape my thoughts about the negative aspects of censorship and through it we erase some of the messages or thoughts we are trying to propagate. I am just not sure at what cost I am comfortable with. Without some censorship we run the risk of violent behavior and numbness. With it, we run the risk of denial of freedom of speech and thought.
A Feminist Defense of Pornography:
This article talks about the study I wrote about above and dispels some of the conclusions that this study (and others like it) came up with. It was valid and I hope to do some more in depth research on my own to decide which study I would align myself best with. I find this article difficult to comment on because I don't have enough personal knowledge on the topic. I would like to read a book about the historical precedence on pornography. Additionally, I would be interested in learning more about the legal rights and protection of women. It would also be helpful to look at interviews, documentary's and other personal accounts from women who have actually been in the profession. I have difficulty maintaining a particular position without more information. I am glad this article brings up some of the arguments both for and against because it gives me a nice base to begin my research upon.
This article touched upon a lot of the personal conflict I feel about pornography: liberation, free will vs. confinement and oppression. The most interesting piece of the article for me was the area in which the author examines how sex work is not considered a human rights violation. It struck me when the author compared sex work to slavery and torture. It is not something that most think about in this severe of terms but it does feel appropriate when put in this context. The voice in this article stuck with me for days after reading and has made me think again deeper about the perpetual violation of women and girls. Not only is this not thought of in this way- but we are raised to believe that this IS an exception to sexual assault, rape or sexual violence. When in truth, I don't believe it is. I don't think that all women are consenting in the way that many people think they are.
A Feminist Argument Against Censorship:
I read a research study years ago that found that people who watch pornography become normalized to sexual violence and are less likely to be disturbed by sexually violent imagery, video, or real life experiences. Additionally, they are more likely to be in violent relationships. I understand that this is only one study with many of variables but I have always thought about it and it has shaped my opinion of the porn industry. I am inclined to say that most porn does not depict women in a liberating way and therefore does not challenge sexism or put forth the liberating sexual identity we, as feminists, are trying to create for women in media. I am inclined to say that I believe in some censorship because I hope that through it we will prevent people from becoming numb to violent behavior. This article has helped shape my thoughts about the negative aspects of censorship and through it we erase some of the messages or thoughts we are trying to propagate. I am just not sure at what cost I am comfortable with. Without some censorship we run the risk of violent behavior and numbness. With it, we run the risk of denial of freedom of speech and thought.
A Feminist Defense of Pornography:
This article talks about the study I wrote about above and dispels some of the conclusions that this study (and others like it) came up with. It was valid and I hope to do some more in depth research on my own to decide which study I would align myself best with. I find this article difficult to comment on because I don't have enough personal knowledge on the topic. I would like to read a book about the historical precedence on pornography. Additionally, I would be interested in learning more about the legal rights and protection of women. It would also be helpful to look at interviews, documentary's and other personal accounts from women who have actually been in the profession. I have difficulty maintaining a particular position without more information. I am glad this article brings up some of the arguments both for and against because it gives me a nice base to begin my research upon.
Saturday, November 6, 2010
Pornography
After reading the articles on pornography, I had to take a step back and think about what I actually thought about pornography. I don't know if it was just me, but many of these articles made me question myself and my own views on the topic. The article that was talking about why feminists are against censorship really opened my eyes to see the discussion of pornography in a different way.
When I was younger, pornography was always something that was secret and forbidden, something that adults would watch only when the kids weren't around. But as I got older I started to gain an appreciation for the business and started to understand that it is not always about the man.
These articles helped me realize that if we censor pornography, or if we ban it completely, we are not just banning and censoring heterosexul pornography. We would also be banning and censoring homosexual pornography, woman on woman, and man on man pornographies. I think that the majority of the society thinks of heterosexual pornography, man with woman, and forgets that not everyone is straight.
When I was younger, pornography was always something that was secret and forbidden, something that adults would watch only when the kids weren't around. But as I got older I started to gain an appreciation for the business and started to understand that it is not always about the man.
These articles helped me realize that if we censor pornography, or if we ban it completely, we are not just banning and censoring heterosexul pornography. We would also be banning and censoring homosexual pornography, woman on woman, and man on man pornographies. I think that the majority of the society thinks of heterosexual pornography, man with woman, and forgets that not everyone is straight.
Friday, November 5, 2010
"A Feminist Defense of Pornography" response.
First, one thing I did like about this third required article, "A Feminist Defense of Pornography" article, is that the author actually came to her conclusion after "interviewing hundreds of sex workers." Note the phrase 'sex workers' as opposed to prostitutes: does she mean that the people she interviewed were working for sex against their will? Or did they choose that lifestyle? Conversely, did they choose that lifestyle because there was no other choice? (Just a few musings I had after reading the first paragraph).
The entire section entitled "Anti-porn feminism" had me both shaking my head in disbelief and wanting to talk back to the computer. I have a hard time believing a statement that is not backed up with evidence, so for this Susan Brownmiller to say "From prehistoric times to the present, I believe, rape has played a critical function. It is nothing more or less than a conscious process of intimidation by which all men keep all women in a state of fear," I would EXPECT to see some kind of evidence, because otherwise it's just bullcrap. I am aware that the prehistoric people kept evidence of everything via cave drawings, but if there are sexual depictions on the walls, who are we to call it rape? Maybe they were trying to record how much pleasure they felt? Would the males back then have wanted or known what rape was? Did they have the time for that? I'll let these digressions fade into the wind, to be revived perhaps in the comments section.
By the end of the article, I was disappointed that the author mentioned that she talked to "the women depicted in pornographic materials"...also known as porn stars or actresses. Still, this may be a minor issue, but to say the word "sex worker," I picture a woman working in the sex industry against her will--a sex slave. I also think it would have been a more interesting article if she managed to interview the sex slaves to get their take on this issue.
So what is my ultimate view after reading these three articles? At this point in time I subscribe to the "porn is healthy" viewpoint. Although I don't know how an insane person would see porn and not want to try it out on the general public, if it does prevent some people from committing rape, then that is fine by me. I concur with the author's statement that there is a lot of Japanese anime porn, because there really truly is. It's everywhere. So if Japan's rape statistics are lower than the U.S., that's not a whole reason to support porn, but one interesting correlation to note.
The entire section entitled "Anti-porn feminism" had me both shaking my head in disbelief and wanting to talk back to the computer. I have a hard time believing a statement that is not backed up with evidence, so for this Susan Brownmiller to say "From prehistoric times to the present, I believe, rape has played a critical function. It is nothing more or less than a conscious process of intimidation by which all men keep all women in a state of fear," I would EXPECT to see some kind of evidence, because otherwise it's just bullcrap. I am aware that the prehistoric people kept evidence of everything via cave drawings, but if there are sexual depictions on the walls, who are we to call it rape? Maybe they were trying to record how much pleasure they felt? Would the males back then have wanted or known what rape was? Did they have the time for that? I'll let these digressions fade into the wind, to be revived perhaps in the comments section.
By the end of the article, I was disappointed that the author mentioned that she talked to "the women depicted in pornographic materials"...also known as porn stars or actresses. Still, this may be a minor issue, but to say the word "sex worker," I picture a woman working in the sex industry against her will--a sex slave. I also think it would have been a more interesting article if she managed to interview the sex slaves to get their take on this issue.
So what is my ultimate view after reading these three articles? At this point in time I subscribe to the "porn is healthy" viewpoint. Although I don't know how an insane person would see porn and not want to try it out on the general public, if it does prevent some people from committing rape, then that is fine by me. I concur with the author's statement that there is a lot of Japanese anime porn, because there really truly is. It's everywhere. So if Japan's rape statistics are lower than the U.S., that's not a whole reason to support porn, but one interesting correlation to note.
Pornography readings 1 and 2
In the interest of keeping my posts to a minimum, this post will discuss the "Pornography: Men Possessing Women" article by Andrea Dworkin and the Avedon Carol article, "A Feminist Argument Against Censorship."
Article 1: I found it extremely interesting that this article (or excerpt) was written in 1981, since it sounded like it was written only a few weeks ago for today's contemporary audience. Of course, this is because the issue of pornography and which side supports it is a classic issue, but I think the reason why it sounded to relevant to me is because in the near three decades since this article was written, the author's statements have only become more pronounced. For instance, a few years ago there was a reality show (that sadly my mom loved to watch) that dealt with the daily lives of a few of the Playboy girls in Hugh Hefner's mansion. From what I know about the show, it was a light, fluffy, "it's so much FUN to work in Hefner's mansion, hehe" type of show. No issues or concerns about working in the porn and pleasure business were ever discussed: their lives were perfect, and they were in that business because they wanted to be. To me, this only reinforced the stereotype that girls enter prostitution because they WANT to, not because they NEED to in order to support their children on a single paycheck. And let's face it, most prostitutes don't need additional jobs because their one profession pays more than enough money.
In regards to the second article, I am surprised again how old the article really is--in 1996 the Internet was still young and used by very few people, so Congress enacting laws against child pornography would have hardly been a concern compared to today, when a simple Google search could uncover horrendous images and videos of exploited children. Also, where has this Congressional "decency" legislation gone? Aside from music, television and anime censorship (which is a whole other topic)against trivial things like curse words, where are the real crackdowns on child porn rings? Is that crickets I hear? Only very rarely are such discoveries and busts reported in the media, but an episode of Family Guy will be put in all of the newspapers and featured on the prime time news networks.
Granted, this is my own opinion, but I feel as if our priorities are majorly screwed up. Rant aside, I like the second article and how it mentions that often it is the feminist ideals that will often be the ones censored, even though it is for "our" benefit.
Article 1: I found it extremely interesting that this article (or excerpt) was written in 1981, since it sounded like it was written only a few weeks ago for today's contemporary audience. Of course, this is because the issue of pornography and which side supports it is a classic issue, but I think the reason why it sounded to relevant to me is because in the near three decades since this article was written, the author's statements have only become more pronounced. For instance, a few years ago there was a reality show (that sadly my mom loved to watch) that dealt with the daily lives of a few of the Playboy girls in Hugh Hefner's mansion. From what I know about the show, it was a light, fluffy, "it's so much FUN to work in Hefner's mansion, hehe" type of show. No issues or concerns about working in the porn and pleasure business were ever discussed: their lives were perfect, and they were in that business because they wanted to be. To me, this only reinforced the stereotype that girls enter prostitution because they WANT to, not because they NEED to in order to support their children on a single paycheck. And let's face it, most prostitutes don't need additional jobs because their one profession pays more than enough money.
In regards to the second article, I am surprised again how old the article really is--in 1996 the Internet was still young and used by very few people, so Congress enacting laws against child pornography would have hardly been a concern compared to today, when a simple Google search could uncover horrendous images and videos of exploited children. Also, where has this Congressional "decency" legislation gone? Aside from music, television and anime censorship (which is a whole other topic)against trivial things like curse words, where are the real crackdowns on child porn rings? Is that crickets I hear? Only very rarely are such discoveries and busts reported in the media, but an episode of Family Guy will be put in all of the newspapers and featured on the prime time news networks.
Granted, this is my own opinion, but I feel as if our priorities are majorly screwed up. Rant aside, I like the second article and how it mentions that often it is the feminist ideals that will often be the ones censored, even though it is for "our" benefit.
Two links
Kotex sells tampons by making fun of tampons --Sociological Imagery
Kimberle Crenshaw on post-racial politics --Sociological Imagery
(Crenshaw is the "law professor who coined the term “intersectionality'". Kind of a big deal.)
Wednesday, November 3, 2010
Readings on Pornography
I have linked below some short readings on pornography. Please read them and be ready to discuss them in class on Monday. You may also post any questions or comments you have before Monday on the blog.
Andrew Dworkin: "Pornography: Men Possessing Women." (1981)
Avedon Carol: "A Feminist Argument Against Censorship" (1996)
Wendy McElroy: "A Feminist Overview of Pornography, Ending in a Defense Thereof" (2008) and "Banning Pornography Harms Women" (first published in PENTHOUSE magazine)
These two readings linked below are longer, and optional, but very interesting reading and I recommend them for anyone interested in this topic.
Catharine Lumby: "Why Feminists Need Porn" from Bad Girls: The media, sex and feminism in the 90's) (1997)
Annalee Newitz: "Obscene feminists: Why Women are Leading the Battle Against Censorship." (2002)
Andrew Dworkin: "Pornography: Men Possessing Women." (1981)
Avedon Carol: "A Feminist Argument Against Censorship" (1996)
Wendy McElroy: "A Feminist Overview of Pornography, Ending in a Defense Thereof" (2008) and "Banning Pornography Harms Women" (first published in PENTHOUSE magazine)
These two readings linked below are longer, and optional, but very interesting reading and I recommend them for anyone interested in this topic.
Catharine Lumby: "Why Feminists Need Porn" from Bad Girls: The media, sex and feminism in the 90's) (1997)
Annalee Newitz: "Obscene feminists: Why Women are Leading the Battle Against Censorship." (2002)
Tuesday, November 2, 2010
Monday, November 1, 2010
Playmate Pink
This website devoted to vintage Mustangs has some interesting discussion of this week's blog image, the "Playmate Pink" Mustang, introduced in 1965, and followed by a color known as "Playboy Pink." One poster opines that the name "Playboy Pink" sounds kind of gay.
Another random tidbit
Here is an article I read in Metroland about Women's issues. Funny enough, Didi Barett is demonstrating "genderblind universalism"!
“They are really not women’s issues,” says Barrett. “They are people’s issues. When you talk about education and health care and all the things that mothers care about and women care about, those issues impact everyone in this district.”
Are they not women's issues? Because I thought they were!
“They are really not women’s issues,” says Barrett. “They are people’s issues. When you talk about education and health care and all the things that mothers care about and women care about, those issues impact everyone in this district.”
Are they not women's issues? Because I thought they were!
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