Sunday, July 27, 2008

be a man!


What does it mean when somebody says, "Be a man!". What should it mean? Should it even be said at all? How about "Be a human!" instead?

This book is painful to read. Not because it's poorly written - it is extremely accessible, especially considering it was researched and written by an academic. What's painful is reflecting on what "masculinity" means in this society and what modern, mainstream porn adds to the mix. Powerful stuff that should be reflected upon by all of us, male and female - it represents a dialogue that should be (but isn't) taking place everywhere in this country.

2 comments:

twin said...

huh....sounds interesting....to say the least. will have to pick it up for a read...

R.T. said...

yes, what does/should masculinity be/mean? i was at the park with my little girl, and overheard another dad telling his 5-ish year old boy that he was acting like a girl because the boy was verbally and physically expressing that he was upset. kids need to be allowed to be kids without being ridiculed into fulfilling gender expectations/role playing.