Happy Place Book Club Meets: “Women are survivors and scapegoats!” Rage and revenge, with Elizabeth Day
Dec 5, 2025
Elizabeth Day, a novelist and podcaster, dives into themes of power, class, and female rage through her latest novel, *One Of Us*. She discusses how women are often portrayed as victims and scapegoats in society. The conversation touches on the disappointments of revenge and the impact of reality TV on public perception and politics. Elizabeth also shares her journey through perimenopause and motherhood, influenced by her own fertility experiences. This lively chat balances humor and insight while tackling serious societal issues.
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Why We Reelect And Romance The Wrong People
- Elizabeth Day argues democracy and romantic love share the same cycle of hope, disappointment, and repeated forgiveness.
- She links elite schooling and media narratives to why voters and partners keep choosing damaging leaders.
Women As Victims, Survivors And Scapegoats
- Day observes women are often victims, survivors and scapegoats of toxic masculinity across society.
- She explores how that dynamic fuels resentment, belonging struggles and novel plotlines.
Reality TV Rehabilitates Public Figures
- Day links reality TV and celebrity culture to political rehabilitation and public forgiveness.
- She uses an invented reality show in the novel to show how spectacle erases past misconduct.
