Don’t call me beautiful
Listen to my words.
Don’t call me beautiful
Listen to my voice.
Don’t expect me to be quiet; I’ve important thoughts to share.
Don’t call me beautiful
Listen to my words.
Don’t call me beautiful
Listen to my voice.
I may see what you see through I may hear what you ignore.
Don’t call me beautiful
Listen to my words.
Don’t call me beautiful
Listen to my voice.
Program Note
Karen Siegel
Too often, people give women compliments on their good looks, not realizing that to call attention to their image is a put-down in that context. A singer is told she looked beautiful onstage, without any mention of how her voice sounded. A composer is introduced casually as “adorable,” rather than mentioning her latest project. A young woman is praised for her beauty at a coming-of-age ceremony, rather than being praised for her intellect and maturity. It’s not ok to compliment a woman’s physical beauty at the expense of noticing her mind, personality, and achievements. When a compliment is given to a woman, it sends a message about what aspects of her person are valued. Don’t Call Me Beautiful celebrates women’s insights and perspectives.
