Ciao, my dear friends!
These past few months have been intense, haven’t they? We live in difficult times, where movements around the world are gaining traction to halt progress for women—and in some cases, even roll back hard-won rights. But today, instead of feeling powerless, I’m choosing to do something different. Posting this is my own small act of resistance.
To all the women readers who are constantly judged for their reading preferences, I want to say: keep doing your thing.
Women and the Things They Love: A History of Shame
Historically, society has often ridiculed and diminished the interests of women. From the disdain for gothic novels in the 18th and 19th centuries (which were predominantly written by and for women) to the mockery of romance novels today, female-driven literature has constantly been considered frivolous or unworthy of praise. Even beyond books, hobbies and activities that women enjoy—such as knitting, makeup, or even certain musical genres—have frequently been dismissed as trivial or superficial.
This pattern is not accidental. By shaming women for their passions, society has historically controlled what is deemed acceptable for them to enjoy, reinforcing patriarchal structures. Literature, in particular, has been a battleground. Jane Austen, the Brontës, and countless other women writers faced criticism in their time, just as contemporary female authors—like in romance and fantasy—still do today. Yet, these very genres often explore deep, universal themes that resonate with millions of readers.
Reading as an Act of Resistance
In a world that constantly polices women’s interests, simply reading what you love becomes an act of resistance. Despite progress, there’s a persistent stereotype that certain genres—particularly romance, erotic fiction, and romantasy—are lesser than “serious” literature.
But reading is a deeply personal experience. Fiction is fiction, and adult readers should be fully capable of distinguishing between imagination and reality. The idea that certain themes should not be explored in literature because they might “influence” readers infantilizes adult women and undermines their autonomy. Books challenge, entertain, and provide an escape, and no one should feel guilty for enjoying stories that speak to them.
Don’t Fall Into the Hate Game
One of the most insidious ways society maintains control over women’s choices is by turning them against each other. The policing of reading preferences often comes from within, as women shame other women for their choices. Whether you enjoy clean romances, spicy books, dark romance, true crime, high fantasy, mystery, or romantasy, your preference is valid.
Criticizing another woman’s reading choices—whether for being “too tame” or “too explicit”—ultimately plays into the same system that seeks to control what women can enjoy. Freedom of choice is the most important thing, and lifting each other up is far more valuable than tearing each other down.
Let’s Keep the Conversation Going
Thank you for coming to my TedTalk!
I know this is something completely different from what I’ve done until now on this blog, but considering the direction the world is going, sharing my thoughts on this topic felt just right today.
If you enjoyed this post, let me know! I’d love to hear your thoughts. If you want to explore these ideas further, I highly recommend this YouTube video by FunkyFrogBait, who masterfully expands on these concepts starting from the place where most young readers roam these days: BookTok.
Happy reading, and happy International Women’s Day!