Second Year Honourable Mention: Homme Improvement

WRIT 2004, Writing in Digital Cultures. CD: Andrea McKenzie

Abstract

This author’s submission—a proposal and a series of linked blog posts—immediately grips the reader’s attention by considering the topic of men’s makeup. A lively and interesting project pitch not only invites us to consider how men feel about wearing makeup in public, but also calls attention to the many failings of cosmetic companies marketing strategies. In their blog entries, the writer carefully and critically examines various ads and media campaigns, noting how their patterns reinforce makeup as either effeminate or bland, rather than as a tool for vibrant self-expression. Fortunately, ‘vibrant self-expression’ is exactly what this writer does, whether they are deconstructing ad campaigns, or critically assessing the connections between male cosmetics, toxic masculinity and homophobia. The result is resonant and informative prose, with thoughtful criticism that invites the reader both to reassess their own prejudices and to use the hyperlinks embedded within to learn more.