Dear Reverend,
My sister insists that Taylor Swift sucks when it’s objectively clear that she’s talented, not just musically, but as a media mogul. I think my sister is stuck in patriarchal thinking that prevents her from appreciating a successful woman doing “girly” things. How can I get her to break free from the chains of patriarchy and admit that Taylor Swift kicks ass?
Not so fast (female, 22 years old)
Dear not so fast,
While attributing your sister’s disdain for Taylor Swift to patriarchal thinking is an intriguing idea — and probably the subject of many academic essays — there may be a simpler explanation.
Some people are born contrarians, programmed to hate pretty much everything simply because it’s popular with the masses. I hate to admit it, but I should include myself in this group.
Case in point: When I was about 15, the musician Prince was becoming extremely popular and I wanted none of that. I went so far as to have a letter published in Newsweek magazine stating that I thought he was just a flash in the pan who stole his style from Jimi Hendrix and Little Richard. However, after a day at the beach smoking weed and listening to Purple Rain with a group of punk rockers, I changed my tune and became a huge fan. So much so that the day Prince died, I felt a deep sense of grief.
All this to say: even we true non-conformists can change our minds.
It’s also possible that your sister is blowing your mind, as siblings often do. Anyway, it’s her; She’s the problem. I suggest you just get rid of it and don’t worry your pretty little mind; people throw stones at shiny things.
Good luck and God bless you,
The Reverend
