

Difficult Women, with Helen Lewis and Rosamund Urwin
Apr 23, 2021
In this engaging discussion, Helen Lewis, a staff writer at The Atlantic and author of "Difficult Women: A History of Feminism in Eleven Fights," highlights the messy legacy of feminism through the lens of complex women. She critiques the simplification of feminist history and emphasizes the ongoing struggles for equality faced by women today. The conversation touches on the challenges of female representation in media, the intricate dynamics of consent in the Me Too era, and how systemic barriers affect low-income women's rights, particularly during the pandemic.
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Difficult Women Defined
- "Difficult women" are not just rude or divas.
- They're women who challenge norms, persist relentlessly, and address complex issues.
Millicent Garrett Fawcett's Persistence
- Millicent Garrett Fawcett campaigned for women's rights for 60 years.
- Her dedication exemplifies "difficult" persistence.
Role Model Trap
- Feminism's focus on role models can dilute its radical political message.
- It often turns into "feel-good inspiration porn," demanding perfection.