Recently, while at the butcher’s counter, I found myself seeking a particular cut of beef for my renowned pot roast. This dish, a treasured family recipe, has been prepared by me countless times, and I can confidently say I’ve mastered it. Admitting this expertise as a woman felt oddly uncomfortable.
Approaching the counter, I requested the meat, expecting a straightforward transaction. However, the male butcher, instead of fulfilling my request, inquired about my intended use for the cut—as if it were any of his concern. To my dismay, he proceeded to lecture me on meat selection for the next five minutes.
He rambled on about how I should utilize the meat, outlining dos and don’ts in excruciating detail. After finally receiving the desired cut, I left feeling frustrated, wishing I could have simply bypassed his unsolicited advice.
Dear Mansplainers,
As a woman, I acknowledge that I might communicate differently in professional settings. I tend to speak less, be indirect, apologize frequently, and use fillers such as “um” and “like” more than you might. Research indicates this behavior stems from a lower threshold for perceived offense. I recognize that, stereotypically, I may come off as a pushover in conversations. I’m actively working to address this; however, that is my last apology.
It’s imperative that we put an end to mansplaining. The term was first introduced by Rebecca Solnit in her 2008 essay Men Explain Things To Me, referring to men elaborating on topics they presume women cannot understand.
For instance, as a mother of two, you wouldn’t presume to lecture me on childbirth or parenting. Yet, I have encountered men attempting to explain these very subjects to me over the years. Mansplaining embodies the male ego trying to assert itself, often disregarding the expertise I possess on the topic at hand. This has occurred in various settings—from writer’s conferences to the classroom, and yes, even at the butcher’s counter.
Sometimes, even my husband unintentionally engages in mansplaining. After 15 years of marriage, I understand he means no harm. When I share my feelings of sadness, he often dives into lengthy explanations about exercise, sleep, or parenting techniques, trying to offer solutions when I simply need to express my emotions.
So, to all mansplainers out there, please recognize that my intellect is sound. I have extensive knowledge on many subjects, even if I don’t flaunt it. I have been navigating this world for 40 years, and if I seek your advice on my pot roast, I will ask you.
Thank you,
Women Everywhere
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Summary:
This article discusses the experience of being on the receiving end of mansplaining, particularly in situations where expertise is overlooked due to gender biases. The author shares personal anecdotes and emphasizes the importance of recognizing women’s knowledge and capabilities. The piece concludes with a call for an end to mansplaining and a reminder that women have lived and learned enough to be experts in their own right.
Keyphrase: “mansplaining experiences”
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