Stories & Articles

Caitlin Moran: How to Be a Woman

Vanessa de Largie | June 10, 2012 | June 10, 2012

I have literally just finished reading ‘How To Be A Woman’ in one sitting, after waiting patiently for it to arrive at my local library.

Caitlin Moran is a breath of fresh air. She scratches away the negativity associated with the term ‘feminism’ and makes it accessible to all women, which I believe is a huge breakthrough.

How To Be A Woman covers every nook and cranny about being a woman. It covers periods, pregnancy, pubes, masturbation and body image, just to name a few.

She has a great talent at telling it like it is. Her writing is brave and bold, not to mention hilarious.

Part memoir, part comedic feminist discussion, Moran will have your ears pricked.

I really enjoyed her chapter on ‘women who choose to be childless’ titled – Why You Shouldn’t Have Children.

Moran is a mother and it was so refreshing to hear a mother/feminist discuss the perks and admiration of those who have chosen the childless path.

To quote Moran:

Whilst motherhood is an incredible vocation, it has no more inherent worth than a childless woman, simple being who she is, to the utmost of her capabilities. To think otherwise, betrays a belief that being a thinking, creative and fulfilled woman is somehow not enough. That no action will ever be the equal of giving birth.

Moran also balances this chapter, with another chapter previous – Why You Should Have Children.

I am a huge fan of feminist – Germaine Greer. Alot of critics have compared Moran’s book to Greer’s The Female Eunuch.

I feel immensely proud about being a woman today. Knowing that these two great women walk the earth, trying to create change for my sex.

It may not mean a lot to other females but it means a great deal to me.

Do yourself a favour. Seek out this book today. It’s worth your time and attention.