Review - 'Girls': A Feminist Masterpiece?

My initial attraction to HBO's television series 'Girls' was its loud-mouthed and extroverted writer, who immediately provoked a controversial reception. As they say, 'no publicity is bad publicity', which is exactly what this show achieves. It does so by foremost exposing the often undercut idea that women can and should express sexual lasciviousness. Anything that can prompt such response overnight has got to be doing something right.

This outspoken and 'give zero fucks' attitude is what gives the show its agency. And what's more, it is exactly what is required to encourage other young writers to write about what they want, regardless of its content. As a young person who both loves and lives to write, I am very aware of restrictive boundaries. But I also strongly feel that we should be able to publish what we like, aside from directional pulls or conflict. After all, if we were to prevent everything that may cause the slightest upset, the world of writing would be rather bleak.

Look at Taslima Nassin, who, after escaping her Muslim upbringing, has written several controversial but fascinating pieces on religion. Who are we to stop her from writing about something she believes in and is likely better informed on that the vast majority of the population? Some of her novels that dispute Islam have been banned, as they are said to 'offend religious feelings.' But instead of criticising, we should take inspiration from those like Nassin who open themselves up for their writing. After all, it is people like her who pave the way for future writers.

Going back to 'Girls', many have criticised the show for failing 'to celebrate feminism [as it] depicts four entirely self-interested young women and a lead character having the most depressing, disempowered sexual relationships imaginable.' But it is exactly this unprecedented banality that makes 'Girls' such a success. This show is the first step to moving beyond the Disney-esque typeface of Barbie doll fairytales that have for so long burdened our screens. We need to put aside the predictable culmination in happily-ever-after and instead strive to paint reality in all its unadorned glory.

As the show enters its sixth and final season, it is clear that 'Girls' has become 'the voice of [a] generation'. The question is, will we act on all that it has achieved, or will it be swept into a corner as a bygone phase? As for me, I'm looking to the former.

Photo credit: tvseriesfinale.com

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