If any of us had heard the word "feminist" we would have…
““If any of us had heard the word "feminist" we would have thought it meant a girl who wore too much makeup, but we were, without knowing it, feminists ourselves, bound together by the freemasonry that exists among intelligent women who know they are intelligent. It is the only kind of female bonding that works, which is why most men do not like intelligent women. They don't mind one female brain if they can enjoy it privately; it's the idea of two or more on the loose that upsets them. The girls in the college-bound group might not have been friends in every case--Sharon Cohen and I gave each other willies--but our instincts told us that we had the same enemies.””
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
Intelligent women form strong, supportive connections that threaten patriarchal comfort, leading to male resentment of collective female empowerment.
In simple terms: Smart women bond, men feel uneasy.
Key Takeaway
Recognize and nurture intelligent female alliances.
Themes
female empowerment
solidarity
gender dynamics
intelligence
social bonding
Mood
defiant
reflective
Type
analytical
inspirational
When to use this quote
- college friendships
- professional networks
- activist groups
- online communities
- mentor relationships
Key Concepts
feminist consciousness
collective identity
patriarchal insecurity
Questions to Reflect On
- How can women foster inclusive bonds without alienating allies?
- What role do men play in supporting intelligent female networks?
A Different Perspective
Male discomfort can hinder open dialogue and collaboration.