The recent Barbie movie has sparked discussions about the societal expectations placed on women, particularly highlighted in a powerful scene where Gloria, played by America Fererra, delivers a passionate monologue. In this scene, Gloria explains to Barbie how it is “literally impossible to be a woman” due to the conflicting and unrealistic standards women are held to. While many viewers resonated with Gloria’s speech, there is a deeper perspective to consider.
One common response to Gloria’s speech is to point out that men also face their own set of impossible and contradictory expectations. The director of the film herself acknowledges this, highlighting that men too feel the pressure of societal norms. Meghan Daum even re-wrote Gloria’s speech to apply to men, demonstrating the universal struggle with societal expectations.
However, the fundamental flaw in both Gloria’s speech and its re-write for men lies in the assumption that “society” has expectations. In reality, society is made up of individuals with diverse preferences and beliefs. Trying to please everyone and conform to society’s supposed expectations is a futile endeavor that only leads to mental anguish.
Rather than viewing societal expectations as a monolithic entity, it is more beneficial to recognize the individuality of people’s perspectives. Understanding that you cannot please everyone and that there will always be conflicting opinions allows for a healthier mindset. Gloria’s assertion that society demands impossible standards is misguided – the true impossibility lies in the concept of society having unified expectations.
In conclusion, the Barbie movie serves as a thought-provoking exploration of societal norms and the pressure placed on individuals to conform. By shifting the focus from societal expectations to individual preferences, we can liberate ourselves from the burden of trying to meet unattainable standards. Embracing our uniqueness and understanding that we cannot please everyone is the key to navigating the complexities of societal norms.
