“Narcissism as Liberation”

• Question 1: Throughout Douglas’s essay she uses sarcasm and cynicism to prove her point. She talks a lot about molds that women are made to fill in society. One of her main irritations is the quest for perfects thighs and the perfect butt, and the quest to have smooth non “orange-peel like skin.” She complains that it’s not just acceptable to be fit and healthy, but women are being pushed to look like young girls. Women are being forced to look at themselves and decide that they are unhappy with they way they are. Society pushed the image of women to be younger and more youthful looking. Douglas isn’t saying that it’s wrong to be young and youthful, however, we shouldn’t drive ourselves mad because we have “orange-peel skin,” but we should just be happy with our fit, maybe a little curvier than “normal,” selves.
• Question 2: Douglas’ technique of writing is what draws the reader in and keeps them intrigued. She likes to criticize and make fun of society for the pressures they have put on women and adolescents. Her sarcasm and cynical comments not only intrigue the reader but they are also part of a training that Douglas has received. She uses techinical terms to undermine the terms the cosmetic adds and magazines have used to draw women into buy and consuming their products.  When Douglas uses technical words such as “feminist rhetoric,” hedonistic,”or “age of Regean” she is showing an knowledge of what she is saying. The reader is drawn in with her witty banter and sarcastic comments, but then they realize that she’s not just complaining and long-winded but that she actually knows what’s going on.