Analyzing Kinsey's Second-Wave Feminism

‘The term second-wave feminism refers mostly to the radical feminism of the women’s liberation movement of the late 1960s and early 1970s.’ The first wave of feminism which started in the 1930’s started the battle for women’s rights, equality and the right to vote. It witnessed the rise of the suffrages but unfortunately only focused on white middle class women. The second wave set out for much more. Described as one the largest social movements in U.s history women joined together in a mass protest to shout out against sexual objectification and hierarchal authority. It was also the first opportunity black women and homosexuals were given to voice their opinion and to take part in the protest. It all seemed to stem from the Miss American pageants

Especially within this extract there is something demeaning about Kinsey Malone. Firstly I want to discuss her narrative voice. After reading over the extract once her tone came across as spiteful and judgemental, ‘It was a mouth built for unnatural acts. Something about her demeanour promised cool improvisational sex…’ although Kinsey’s comments appear catty we actually need to look at the bigger picture and ask ourselves what Grafton is actually trying to say. Firstly, Grafton is showing her appreciation for the female body in the eyes of another female. Most likely these types of comments would usually be made be a male playing the detective protagonist which women would argue was sexual objectification. Grafton is playing with gender power; she is giving Kinsey authority, boldness and ruthlessness. Thus allowing her female detective to completely take on the role of the male proving to her readers that she can be just as much of an equal to the male. Kinsey’s narrative voice also suggests that she is well spoken; she is calm never rushed, suggesting that she is in control, perfect for the role of a detective. This is also evident within the pace of the text. Kinsey is simple with her language, factual at times but throughout this extract we never get the impression Kinsey is nervous, erratic or distractive she is calm and completely in control of the situation and within the text. Throughout the text Kinsey is extremely descriptive; her profession demands that she pay attention to detail. Kinsey explains, ‘Sharon Napier was not hard to find.’ This suggests that Kinsey is somewhat boastful about this accomplishment; this confidence within Kinsey is another way the second wave of feminism is explored within the text. Grafton is saying that Kinsey is as equally as good for the job as any man could be which is one of the main issues within the feminist movement. Another way in which Kinsey