If you need to brush up on your feminist education and could also use a chuckle, a quick perusal of Feminist Ryan Gosling: Feminist Theory (As Imagined) From Your Favorite Sensitive Movie Dude by Danielle Henderson might be just the ticket. Henderson has a blog that features photos of actor Ryan Gosling imprinted with bits of feminist thoughts. And since they’re intended to look like Ryan Gosling is actually saying them, the statements always start with, “Hey girl.” For instance:
Hey girl. I know how Judith Butler feels about subverting the dominant paradigm and rejecting the naturalization of heteronormativity, but I got you this flower.
Sometimes the statement has a less-direct tie to feminist philosophy, but contains sentiments that most feminists would find themselves agreeing with, such as:
Hey girl. Does watching reality television only to point out the flawed, patriarchal undertones count as activism?
There have been several copy-cat blogs on varying interests both using Ryan Gosling as the focus and starting with, “Hey girl.” Librarian Hey Girl is my personal favorite. This site focuses on the library world, and the link was passed among library staff earlier this year. We all love working with all of you, but there are times when we just want to have a laugh, nod our heads, and say, “Yep. Only in the library!”
Back to Feminist Ryan Gosling! The Library of Congress has classified this book in the humor section (817.6) but I wouldn’t let that distract from your pursuit of a feminist education. Many people dream of a sensitive man (or woman) who will not only show an appreciation for their interests but genuinely agrees with them, too. So even though we don’t know exactly what Ryan Gosling’s views on feminism are, we can enjoy this fantasy just the same and simultaneously learn a bit more about what feminists have been working so hard on for so many, many years.
I thank everyone who speaks out for what they believe in. I also have to thank those who can put a humorous spin on it and bring it to the masses. Thank you, Danielle Henderson!
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