Argov's Why Men Love Bitches is one of those non-fiction, self-help-y books that circles of female friends often pass around. I remember my friend recommended it to me years ago. If I must guess it was around early 2007 when she burst into my workplace claiming that I had to read this book... it was just that good. And, with a title like its own, I clearly remember the first day it was introduced to me.
But, what was all the fuss about?
Argov claims that women all-too-often become dependent and much too obliging to the men they date. Argov suggests that men will have fun with the gals who are that way... but they won't keep them. Who do men fall in love with? Bitches. Not the girl who gives everything up, but the girl who stands her ground, is independent, and has respect for her body and mind.
When I first read this book years ago I was uncomfortable with society's messages but I did not know how to label them. I am a 90's kid and grew up with the abundance of sexist media that went along with the era. That media seems to promote everything that Argov argues not to do. I see clearly that Argov is preaching feminism in hindsight.
I feel uneasy grouping all men into one category. I believe it is a lot healthier for females to believe Argov's message, but we must also keep in mind that not all men are attracted to strong, dependent women. It's like saying that all women are attracted to one set of qualities in males.
Overall, this book is interesting. Perhaps even a good slap in the face for those gals who give "everything up" in a matter of hours or days and then wonder where he disappeared to. But, having said that, ground-shattering advice it is not. Common sense and a tale of morality? Yes.
Bibliographic Information:
Argov, S. (2004). Why men love bitches. Avon, MA: Adams Media.
See, I'm put off from the beginning that "the girl who stands her ground, is independent, and has respect for her body and mind" is the bitch. I'm annoyed with the author's characterization of women who have their own minds as bitches and I haven't even started the book yet.
ReplyDeleteThanks for stopping by and commenting, Julie!
ReplyDeleteI agree with you - I was first put off by this book due to its 'bitch' characterization. However, after reading, I have found that Argov uses the title 'bitch' as a sort of reclamation (a la other ethnic or social groups who have regained derogatory/negative terms in support of their own identity).