US President Trump's bizarre remark about a female reporter being a "quiet, piggy" was met with outrage and ridicule. However, what initially appeared to be an example of his typical condescension towards women turned out to be something more unusual โ it seemed almost like a childlike attempt at affection or flirtation.
The situation quickly took a dark turn when Trump sat down for a press conference with the Saudi crown prince and proceeded to question Mary Bruce's credentials and insinuate that her family's business dealings with Saudi Arabia were inappropriate. This kind of language is not only unbecoming but also chillingly sinister, reminiscent of A Clockwork Orange.
Meanwhile, Vanity Fair has made headlines for its decision to feature an all-male lineup in its Hollywood Issue, sparking controversy over the portrayal of men and the notion that their underdog status should be acknowledged. The publication's editor, Mark Guiducci, seems to have fallen prey to this narrative, presenting it as a celebration of masculinity rather than a genuine attempt to promote diversity.
The real tragedy here is not Trump's behavior or Vanity Fair's misguided editorial choice but the numerous women who are still struggling for recognition in male-dominated industries. Olivia Nuzzi, the former reporter fired after engaging in a "sexting scandal" with RFK Jr, is one such example. Her book, American Canto, is an attempt to bear witness to Trumpworld and its effects on her life as well as the country at large.
Another woman who has faced backlash for speaking out against power is Sarah Ferguson, the former Duchess of York. Her children's book was cancelled due to public outcry over her involvement in Jeffrey Epstein's scandal. This decision highlights how women are still held accountable for their personal lives and actions, while men can continue to engage in questionable behavior without consequence.
In contrast, Danish author Solvej Balle has had the opposite experience with her 30-year novel On the Calculation of Volume, which was included on the International Booker shortlist and featured in a lengthy profile. Her reaction to not winning the prize is refreshingly humble and down-to-earth, offering a respite from the drama and pettiness that often accompanies high-profile literary pursuits.
The situation quickly took a dark turn when Trump sat down for a press conference with the Saudi crown prince and proceeded to question Mary Bruce's credentials and insinuate that her family's business dealings with Saudi Arabia were inappropriate. This kind of language is not only unbecoming but also chillingly sinister, reminiscent of A Clockwork Orange.
Meanwhile, Vanity Fair has made headlines for its decision to feature an all-male lineup in its Hollywood Issue, sparking controversy over the portrayal of men and the notion that their underdog status should be acknowledged. The publication's editor, Mark Guiducci, seems to have fallen prey to this narrative, presenting it as a celebration of masculinity rather than a genuine attempt to promote diversity.
The real tragedy here is not Trump's behavior or Vanity Fair's misguided editorial choice but the numerous women who are still struggling for recognition in male-dominated industries. Olivia Nuzzi, the former reporter fired after engaging in a "sexting scandal" with RFK Jr, is one such example. Her book, American Canto, is an attempt to bear witness to Trumpworld and its effects on her life as well as the country at large.
Another woman who has faced backlash for speaking out against power is Sarah Ferguson, the former Duchess of York. Her children's book was cancelled due to public outcry over her involvement in Jeffrey Epstein's scandal. This decision highlights how women are still held accountable for their personal lives and actions, while men can continue to engage in questionable behavior without consequence.
In contrast, Danish author Solvej Balle has had the opposite experience with her 30-year novel On the Calculation of Volume, which was included on the International Booker shortlist and featured in a lengthy profile. Her reaction to not winning the prize is refreshingly humble and down-to-earth, offering a respite from the drama and pettiness that often accompanies high-profile literary pursuits.