Subversive desires : exploring the sexuality enacted by the musical performances of Liz Phair & P.J. Harvey.
Date
2010-05-28T09:02:07Z
Authors
Moodley, Dhersen
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Abstract
The idea of a subversive female sexual desire is certainly controversial as it begs the
question how we can know and at what point(s) does this desire become subversive.
The work of two female musicians: Liz Phair and PJ Harvey, specifically through their
albums ‘Exile in Guyville’ and ‘Rid of Me’ respectively, are the inspiration behind a
subversive female sexual desire. These two musicians appear to communicate through
the mentioned albums a desire that contrasts the way in which female musicians
traditionally express matters pertaining to their sexual desire. What emerges then are
arguments surrounding the epistemological and ontological structures that underpin a
female sexual desire, especially as the notion of subversion speaks to a convention that
such structures maintain that is perhaps more exclusive than one imagines it to be.
Music as a medium in which a female sexual desire is enacted is perhaps a way for
women to exercise matters pertaining to their sexual desire, especially when one
imagines how subversion hints at expressions of such a desire being more exclusive
than inclusive for women. Music then becomes a mode of expression for women
allowing them creativity, space and reflection to explore their sexual desires in a
manner that is endless. Music however is not without its own prejudices and restrictions
in terms of neutrality it may accord women in exploring their desire with a sense of
authenticity. Music especially as an industry is riddled with tensions and struggles
regarding the commodification of music, the overriding influence of popular culture
and how this compromises the extent to which artistic integrity and honesty is
maintained. Against the idea put forth of a subversive female sexual desire and the
extent to which Liz Phair and PJ Harvey represent this as well as the implications such
subversion has for a female sexual desire, seven participants three male and four
female, from all racial groupings, and above the ages of twenty-one have been
interviewed using a semi-structured interview. The interview sought to explore
participant’s perceptions primarily on female musicians on matters pertaining to sexual
desire using Liz Phair and PJ Harvey as models almost to explore the matter.