“The fact that a novel is universally renowned does not prove it is inherently superior. White men did not historically write better novels; they were simply given better access and appreciation for what they wrote. . .by other white men.” Zadie Smith, telling the truth in 2008.
“America is now wholly given over to a damned mob of scribbling women, and I should have no chance of success while the public taste is occupied with their trash - and should be ashamed of myself if I did succeed.” Nathaniel Hawthorne, whining to his editor in 1855.
Damned mob of scribbling women.
Leigh and Elanor are sick of reading about the lives of Medicore White Men to the exclusion of all other voices year after year in high school English and Lit Classes. Maybe you are, too. DAMNED SCRIBBLING WOMEN suggests we all stop enabling the patriarchy (I’m talking to you, every teacher, principal, school board and district official we’ve had meetings with to no avail. We’ve resorted to podcasting, are you happy now?) Each episode, we examine the mediocrity, boring-ass misogyny and racism of one book from Elanor’s all-white male-authored Honors English/Lit 9th grade syllabus, and offer three alternate (Better) texts written by women. Join us for discussions about classic, award-winning books found in the canon but not in the classroom, that feature tantalizing narratives, powerful, intriguing lives, and the language and perspective of women, particularly BIPOC women. Because when it comes to the never-ending bullshit of perpetuating instead of ending misogyny and toxic masculinity, there’s always an easy excuse - but never a real reason. Let’s do this, Ladies.