Being a Man in 2021

What's it like? Discuss.

by KIT RUSH

ur masculinity is in crisis.

OPrevious generations have instilled long standing structures that have infused our sex with misogynist attitudes and behaviours. Although we have seen reform in recent years, as a collective, we still suffer from the overbearing attributes that define us: the brutal, domineering and immature deportments of manhood – normalised in a contemporary society.

Toxic masculinity is the issue that most significantly accounts for this damning disposition; men feel the need to assert themselves within all spheres of life in order to affirm their manhood. But, this can be polarising – with many feeling pressured to conform to this perverse status-quo. Therefore, our struggle is breaking away from the preconceived mould and being brave “Therefore, our struggle is breaking away from the preconceived mould and being brave enough to define a new behaviour which may ignite a much needed change within society.”

enough to define a new behaviour which may ignite a much needed change within society.

However, the real issue is how we measure progression; it is not unified. For all the fantastic advancements wrought by the feminist movement, we have created stigmas. More so than ever, there is an inability to speak freely on divisive topics due to the exhausting fear that one may cause offence - not through ill-intent but as a result of miscommunication and the misunderstanding of others. The fact is, issues that must be addressed become hard to talk about and subsequently it becomes difficult to find a solution. We have made progress, but not enough. Our lives are dominated by fear which is further reinforced by our contemporary cancel culture.

As the next generation, we must realise our position as role models and forge a more positive social structure. The truth is that, regardless of gender, in 2021 it’s hard to just be a person.