Never one to hold back, the fabulously flamboyant and foul mouthed Lily Allen is back, and it's clear she is here to send a message. Her comeback single, which she is hailing as a taster for what is to come next year, was released this week and it certainly sparked a lot of debate. For me I think it represents how perfectly ridiculous the music industry is nowadays- sexist to the point of stupidity, women are portrayed as submissive objects who flash their flesh at the click of slimy fingers such as Robin Thicke's. With his gratuitously iconic video Blurred Lines in mind, I have compiled 7 elements of 'Hard Out Here' which are not only feminist, but capable of inspiring females everywhere.
1. The Plastic Surgery scene
As Allen lays on a table while a group of men poke and prod at her, an older man tells the singer"Letterman says no". She pokes fun at the industry by highlighting the fact that she as a woman is being rejected by talk show hosts such as the latter and Kimmel, both of which are older men. For me it also emphasised the fact that the interviewing world is very much male dominated, and in general in presenting there are no older women at the forefront. The suited man standing up then describes her body as "terrifying".
2. She points out the unequal perceptions of sexual promiscuity
Nowadays, most insulting words are female orientated, as Allen rightly says in the lines: " If I told you 'bout my sex life, you'd call me a slut. When boys be talking about their bitches, no one's making a fuss. "
3. "There's a glass ceiling to break"
Allen sings about the glass ceiling, and the fact that progress in equality is moving too slowly, and that she can't cope with the pace. Totally behind you on that one Lily!
4. Owning the word "bitch"
At first listen, you might question why Allen decided to use a derogatory term multiple times in her song, but I think it is powerful AND feminist for two reasons:
1. It's a controversial thing to do, and definitely grabs the listener's attention.
2. The emphasis on the word is a two fingers to the men who think they have the right to use the word against women.
1. It's a controversial thing to do, and definitely grabs the listener's attention.
2. The emphasis on the word is a two fingers to the men who think they have the right to use the word against women.
5. She sends up the female stereotypes
With the wonderful comparison of Blurred Lines, you will see in visual how Allen sends up thepathetic Robin Thicke single. She emphasises that it's not about domestication, good looks or sex, it's about intelligence.
6. She represents a strong female archetype
My favourite part of the song is the bridge when she says "Sometimes it's hard to find the words to say, I'll go ahead and say them anyway". She urges women to speak up and speak out, it's truly inspiring.
7. "Inequality promises that it's here to stay"
Allen highlights a completely true statement, but points out that even though injustice is here to stay, we shouldn't put up with it.
Lily I've missed you! Welcome back!
And just in case you really didn't get the video and it's intentions...
Watch the video here:
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