Jonathan Wier: Taylor Swift Is Exactly the Kind of Role-Model Girls Need
I can’t believe I’m doing this. I’m going to write an article defending Taylor Swift. Not that she needs me, or anyone, to defend her. Heck, usually I think celebrities are fair game for criticism because that’s the trade off for being rich and famous. But I was so annoyed by this article in Newsweek by John Mac Ghlionn that I had to get my thoughts out. In his opinion piece Mac Ghlionn argues Swift is not a suitable role model for young women. I’m going to counter that and say that Taylor Swift is a great role-model for girls for one simple reason.
His Criticism
Mac Ghlionn’s criticisms begin with Swift’s personal life. At 34, she is unmarried and childless, which, according to the writer, sets a questionable example. He asks, “We must ask if her personal life choices are ones we want our sisters and daughters to emulate.” Ok, I know this might sound crazy but 34 isn’t old. It’s not even middle aged. Is he suggesting that any woman past the age of 33 is an old maid? And if so what Charles Dickens novel did he step out of? Women can still have babies as old as the age of 50. And if you’re rich probably even older.
Mac Ghlionn also highlights Swift’s “revolving door of relationships,” suggesting that her dating history is problematic. He questions, “Would any loving parent reading this want their daughter to date 12 different men in the span of just a few years?” Dang it, I had to actually google this! But Taylor has actually had 12 exes. Which may seem like a lot if you believe that it’s been 12 in a few years. But in fact it’s been 12 exes since 2008. That’s 12 in 16 years. Which means less than one a year. THE SCANDAL!
Another major criticism is the perceived hypocrisy in Swift’s feminist stance. Mac Ghlionn points out that she often dates “strong, influential men,” suggesting a contradiction in her attacks on the patriarchy. He writes, “Swift either doesn’t realize this [hypocrisy] or doesn’t care. Neither of the two is a good look.” Ok where do I start with this. Yes she dates influential men. Usually famous guys. That’s because when you are the most famous woman on the planet you can’t exactly go on Tinder or Plenty Of Fish to meet dudes. Usually you meet guys who also run in similar circles. Also how is dating a strong and influential man an affront to feminist values? If anything a strong woman should seek out strong men.
I Am Not A Swiftie
Look, I’m no Swiftie. In fact less than a week ago I wrote an article detailing how insane Swifties can be in their need to constantly defend Taylor from the likes of mean ol men like Dave Grohl. And while I’m doing that now it’s in service to a broader point. Women like Taylor Swift are an affront to a guy like Mac Ghlionn simply by being successful. Successful men don’t have to worry about the same criticisms he’s levying here. “Unmarried at 34? Who cares? Get a trophy wife when you’re 60!” “You date a lot of women? Of course you do you dog!”
But here’s the point I want to make besides how blatantly sexist and hypocrtical this dude is. Taylor Swift simply by existing on her own terms annoys this guy. Which is why I think she’s a perfect role-model for young women. Consider that your job and duty ladies. Go out there and annoy the crap out of stodgy old guys, even if they are sometimes me.
We have it coming.
