Revisiting Masculinity in Poetry and Society

This chapter explores the rise of a new celebrity in American poetry during the 1980s, focusing on themes of masculinity and the influence of the men's self-help movement. It critiques both the notion of soft masculinity and the broader societal shifts that have impacted male identity, including the effects of feminism and capitalism. The discussion highlights the complexities of gender dynamics, emphasizing the need for a more inclusive perspective on masculinity that considers both male and female experiences.