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[the-vixxen]

No, Lana Del Rey's Music Is Not Anti-Feminist: A Defense of Female Vulnerability

Lana Del Rey, the enigmatic songstress known for her dreamy melodies and haunting lyrics, has been a subject of controversy and criticism within feminist circles throughout the years. Critics have accused her music of perpetuating anti-feminist ideals and romanticizing female submission. The Vixxen, dear reader, has to disagree.

Now this may be old news, but it was a phenomenon that always intrigued me. And as I intend this blog to be about the female experience, giving voice to our longings, something Lana has made a career of, I believe this is the perfect subject matter to do so.

In this blog post, I aim to defend Lana Del Rey's creative process, arguing that it is a powerful exploration of the female experience through fantasy, delving into themes of longing, and desire.

Fantasy as a Means of Exploration

Lana Del Rey's music is a rich tapestry of fantasy and nostalgia, providing a safe space for listeners to explore complex emotions. Rather than adhering to the politically correct notion of feminism, she chooses to delve into the darker, more mysterious aspects of the female psyche. This approach allows women to confront their own vulnerabilities and desires without judgment.

Authenticity Over Girl Power Branding

It’s no secret that feminism is continuously commodied for profit. Women in power abusing said power and masking their exploitation behind a false veneer of empowerment has even become a meme by now. In this onslaught of kitschy phrases and empty slogans on t-shirts made by children in third world countries, Lana is an honest breath of fresh air. Her music does not brand itself as a platform for girl power or empowerment slogans. Instead, it offers a raw and unfiltered portrayal of female pain, longing, and the quest for love. Her willingness to showcase these emotions without sugar-coating them resonates with many women who appreciate this genuine exploration of their inner worlds.

Exploring the Need for Male Validation

 Lana Del Rey's music fearlessly delves into the complex psychological phenomenon of seeking male validation. Rather than dismissing this aspect of female experience, she provides a space for women to confront and understand it. Her songs reflect the inner conflicts and contradictions that many women grapple with in a world where societal norms often dictate their worth through male approval.

In Lana's Words: Addressing the Criticism

Another point of contention is the accusation that Lana glamorizes female submission. But isn't there a distinction between exploring a concept through an artistic lens and glorifying them? Lana Del Rey's music provides a space for women who’ve often found themselves on the submissive end of gendered power dynamics to reflect on their own feelings, even the ones that may be considered less "empowering" by societal standards. 

Something Lana said, that was completely misconstrued and taken out of context to the extent it was used to frame her as a racist was “There has to be a place in feminism for women who look and act like me - the kind of women who are slated mercilessly for being their authentic, delicate selves.”

Along with her mention of other female artists, this was misconstrued as an attack on women of color. Though I’ll remind you that Ariana, a white woman, is mentioned alongside the others. If most of the women mentioned happened to be women of color that is simply because they tend to dominate the genre. Many comments called out that women who look like her- white and conventionally attractive, have not been historically excluded from feminist discourse. 

This would have been a valid point- had this been a different conversation altogether. The statement Lana Del Rey makes in this is not a racial one, but an identifier of feminine traits that are often seen as indicators of weakness by misogynists and feminists alike (and wrongly so!). These feminine traits can and do apply to women across racial identities and cultural demographics.

Lana Del Rey's music is a testament to the power of authentic vulnerability and artistic exploration. It allows women to engage with their deepest desires, insecurities, and romanticized longings without judgment or the confines of mainstream feminist branding. By dismissing the pressures of pandering to a "girlboss" culture, Lana creates a unique space for women to embrace their vulnerabilities. Her music provides an escape into a world of dreams and fantasies, a contrast to the harsh reality of how women are often perceived and treated. In a world that often demands conformity, Lana Del Rey remains a bold and unapologetic voice for those who appreciate her sincere exploration of the complexities of the female experience.

I you agree, if you respectfully disagree, leave a comment down below. This is my first post and hopefully its given you a snapshot of the kind of subjects I am interested in exploring. If these subject matters interest you, consider following my content <3

Signing off, xoxo

~The Vixxen