Underlying Feminism in My Language
In so many instances people asked me why there is an underlying tone of feminism in my language. Let me clarify one thing in the beginning, I’m not a fan of what is represented as modern-day feminism. That doesn’t mean that I reject all their propositions or I found their works uninteresting.
Yes, I accept the tone in my language. The reason may be the women around me and the women I read. For instance, my mom, her understanding of Shakespeare, her knowledge of Indian civil law, her courage in the face of adversaries all made me look up to her and admire her.
My paternal grandma is another woman I saw while growing up. She was an example of power and independence. A widow at a young age with a huge possession of wealth, she controlled people and her wealth with ease. She was way better than both her sons. Against her adult sons’ objection, she started learning to drive in her 4 wheel drive Mahindra MUV commonly called in Kerala during the ’70s and ’80s as ‘Jeep’ ( nothing to do with the company Jeep). She even broke her 50+year-old leg during this adventure.
The lady I’m sharing my life with reminds me of the sheer intellect. There is a kind of rare group in this world who excels at everything you throw at them. She is one of that kind.
When I got attracted to Islam as a faith. I found women there powerful, intellectual, and inspiring. The Prophet of Islam seeks advice from the women around him. When his wife Khadeeja died he missed not just a partner but an adviser and a mentor. Contrary to popular understanding, Muslims are proud to say their Prophet was comforted by a woman when he was frightened by the experience of being a prophet.
From Nabia Abbott to Virginia Wolf to Arundathi Roy, the list of my favourite writers is filled with many amazing women.
I found most of the women around me superior to me on many levels. It’s natural to become apoplectic at people’s remark that women are inferior to men.
Yes, I agree there is a tone in my voice and it’s the result of the women who are near and dear to me.
Opinions are personal
Originally published at https://www.linkedin.com.