Sounding more and more like a feminist

I am currently reading Memoirs of a Geisha by Arthur Golden. I am enjoying it quite a bit and will probably look into other accounts of geishas after finishing this novel. (I've already read elsewhere that there are inaccuracies in Golden's portrayl of geishas.)

It's fascinating to me how patriarchal societys can create such dramatic roles for women. Even more fascinating is how women often prescribe to these roles and continue to promote them. Often the gain seems to be an emotional or psychological need for attention.

I always wonder when I meet women who need to apply layers of paint and primp away at a mirror for days before leaving the house, what exactly are they preparing for? The circus? The zoo? What exactly do they think will happen if they leave the house without the ten day prep time in front of the mirror?

I admit, I also wear makeup from time to time or think of my appearance, but this is never the driving force of my existence. I can leave the house wearing pink pajama pants if necessary and believe me, I am okay with it. These pajama pants have even made an appearance at a local Starbucks. And I survived.

While working at the coffee shop the other night a customer stopped me to say, "Mam, your eyes are as blue as the ocean. Can I take a swim in them?"

I held back from laughing and quickly replied, "No, that's okay. Enjoy your drink."

Is this the kind of attention that makes being recongnized as "pretty" so worthwhile? Is this the kind of Casanova I should be waiting for?

I hope this post doesn't make me sound like an angry, raging feminist. If one is reading Memoirs of a Geisha it is very difficult to not think of these issues. Also, I will most likely be writing a paper about this novel soon and so am already brainstorming possible ideas.