This book was written as Robert Webb, comedian and actor, felt throughout his life a sense of not fitting into what he describes as 'the tight fit allowed for masculinity'. The memoirs are split into sections which explore the different ideas that are pretty universally expected of 'boys'. In which he explores the way in which these misconceptions can actually ill-prepared people for the situation in their life, e.g. in the book the loss of his mother is discussed with the relation to being told to 'man-up' and forced the oppression of his emotions to an extent of detachment from the situation.
The book is meant to give a personal perception of the different times in Webb's life where he has not felt masculine enough, yet its purpose is to ring bells in the minds of others and give almost a reassurance that it is okay to feel this way, and not fit into the ideals of masculinity.
I felt this was relevant research as it shows the impact of toxic masculinity on someone and the way in which it can change the perception and the outlook of someone's opinions of their life's events. I felt it was important to gain an understanding of this book also as is speaks about the issues from someone in a different generation which allows me to see the way in which toxic masculinity is not just a modern issue but something which has affected males across multiple decades.
Introduction to the book:
Interview about the book:
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