The Descent of Man by Grayson Perry

I really enjoyed reading this book. I had never heard of Grayson Perry before I encountered this book but once reading the blurb I knew it was essential to my collection. Perry talks about the masculine side of feminism and what feminism desperately needs to include. The patriarchy is a funny concept as it actually helps close to nobody. Of course, it does benefit men economically, socially and politically, however it belittles men’s emotions and needs if they are in any way, shape or form ‘feminine’. Therefore, feminism’s aim of destigmatizing feminine aspects is not exclusive to women, but to everyone.

Perry also talks about the faults men have and how their sense of masculinity can hinder their lives and the decisions they make, for example, a man may not admit to a mistake they have made to preserve his masculinity, which may lead to estranged relationships, friendships, etc. Fortunately, Perry also came up with solutions to the problems within the male sphere that may improve men’s lives because, as I mentioned previously, men are also negatively affected by the patriarchy in certain aspects.

I would highly recommend this book because it presents another perspective to the patriarchy and feminism than the usual female perspective. It is also fascinating to read the perspective of a ‘feminised’ man, by which I mean a man who demonstrates stereotypically female traits, that has had a successful career in art. The book was also enjoyable because Perry used humour and personability to be able to effectively and persuasively communicate his points. Overall, I would say that I was right when I bought the book because it really is an essential to my collection now!