Always a Woman

The book "Always a Woman" does not appear to be a specific, widely recognized literary work. However, the phrase "always a woman" is used in various contexts, including literature, philosophy, and music. Here’s a comprehensive overview of related themes and works that incorporate this phrase:

Themes and Related Works

1. Catherine Breillat's Films

   • Catherine Breillat's films often explore the complexities of women's desires and the societal forces that shape them. Her works, such as "Romance" (1999) and "Blue Is the Warmest Color" (2013), delve into the intricate dance women must perform to acknowledge their sexual desire amidst societal expectations and constraints.

2. Iris Murdoch's Philosophy

   • Iris Murdoch's philosophical works, particularly her concept of "unselfing," have been critiqued for their potential reinforcement of traditional feminine ideals. Lovibond argues that Murdoch's emphasis on humility and selflessness can be seen as perpetuating patriarchal societal expectations of women.

3. Billy Joel's Song "She's Always a Woman"

   • This song, from Billy Joel's 1977 album "The Stranger," is a defense of his ex-wife Elizabeth Weber, who was a businesswoman and his manager. The lyrics describe a woman who is confident, forceful, and ahead of her time, but also acknowledges her complexities and the societal challenges she faced.

4. Decolonial Love and Identity

   • Junot Díaz's works, such as "Drown," explore the complexities of identity and the struggles of women within patriarchal societies. The concept of "always a woman who questions" reflects the need for women to challenge their own oppressions and interpellations.

5. Lucy Sante's Memoir "I Heard Her Call My Name"

   • This memoir by Lucy Sante is a personal journey of self-discovery, particularly in the context of gender transition. The title phrase "always a woman" is not explicitly used, but Sante's narrative reflects her journey to understand and accept her true self.

Critical Reception

• Catherine Breillat's Films: Breillat's films are often provocative and thought-provoking, challenging societal norms and expectations around women's desires and sexuality. Critics praise her for her unflinching portrayal of women's experiences, though some find her approach uncomfortable or disturbing.

• Iris Murdoch's Philosophy: Lovibond's critique of Murdoch's philosophy highlights the tension between Murdoch's emphasis on selflessness and the potential reinforcement of patriarchal ideals. This critique reflects a broader debate within feminist philosophy about the role of traditional virtues in women's lives.

• Billy Joel's Song "She's Always a Woman": The song has been both praised and criticized for its lyrics, with some viewing it as a feminist anthem and others seeing it as perpetuating sexist stereotypes. Joel's intention was to defend his wife's confidence and strength, but the song's reception has been complex and multifaceted.

• Junot Díaz's Works: Díaz's writing is often praised for its nuanced exploration of identity, culture, and the experiences of women and men within patriarchal societies. Critics appreciate his ability to challenge traditional narratives and explore complex themes of love, identity, and oppression.

• Lucy Sante's Memoir: Sante's memoir has been praised for its engaging narrative style and its ability to make complex themes accessible to a wide audience. The memoir has been well-received for its honesty and wit, offering a unique perspective on gender transition and self-discovery.

In summary, while "Always a Woman" is not a specific book, the phrase is used in various contexts to explore themes of identity, societal expectations, and the complexities of women's experiences. The critical reception of these works reflects a broader cultural and philosophical debate about the role of women in society.