This month I’ve been conducting a social experiment – inviting women to come along to a show and get on stage to express their rage. It’s a wild idea that started a couple of years ago at the capital city’s literary festival, Verb Wellington, and has become one of my favourite things to do. Turns out that being angry is tremendously good for the soul.
This isn’t something I might have expected. Of all the emotions, anger is the one I’ve been least good at. I feel it, for sure, but I have been terrible at expressing it. But I’m getting better.
Injustice, rudeness, threats, insults – any kind of attack up close to me or mine – and my “fight” mode will engage. But instantly (and quite annoyingly for someone who is designed to fight with words, not fists), my throat constricts, so my voice sounds like a strangled kitten, and the fury that wants to present itself as a bold and dramatic volcanic eruption is squeezed out through my eyes, drop by tiny drop, as sad widdle tears. Which is, in and of itself, enraging.
I know I’m not alone in this. Women and girls are often discouraged from expressing anger, lest we be seen as hysterical, stroppy, feisty, or – horror of horrors – “unladylike”.
This story is from the May 31, 2021 edition of New Zealand Woman's Weekly.
Start your 7-day Magzter GOLD free trial to access thousands of curated premium stories, and 8,500+ magazines and newspapers.
Already a subscriber ? Sign In
This story is from the May 31, 2021 edition of New Zealand Woman's Weekly.
Start your 7-day Magzter GOLD free trial to access thousands of curated premium stories, and 8,500+ magazines and newspapers.
Already a subscriber? Sign In
The butt OF JOKES
Kevin wasn't so keen on wife Linda’s reaction to his medical emergency!
A space to CALL HOME
Michele reflects on finding your safe place
Gut REACTION
Want to live a healthier, happier life? Experts think the bacteria in your belly could be the secret to living well
Right as ROTI
This delicate Malaysian-style flatbread can be quickly prepared in a frying pan. Enjoy on its own or paired with a curry or soup
LAURA'S BACKYARD DRAMA
The theatre star’s taking The Bard's work to a familiar venue
PAULA & BREE'S SPECIAL BOND
The director admits her leading lady does a bett er job of being her than she does!
KEEPING UP WITH DUSKIE
With a special limb to fast-track her progress, there’s no stopping her now!
MKR SISTERS' KITCHEN CRED
Their taste buds are stronger than most, thanks to wacky childhood creations
'I COULDN'T TELL A SOUL'
In a top-secret mission, the TV star’s uncovered how Pippa took on the Nazis
HOW THEY PLAN TO WIN BACK FANS
The couple’s polo date is just the start of more fun and games