We are permitted to ride, providing we sit in a position ruinous to the horse; providing we wear a riding-habit long enough to hide the obscene human foot, weighed down by ten pounds of gravel to cheat the wind in its free blowing, so running the risk of disabling ourselves completely should accident throw us from the saddle. Think how we swim! We must even wear clothing in the water, and run the gauntlet of derision, if we dare battle in the surf minus stockings!
About this quote
- What does it mean?
- Women are forced to wear impractical and restrictive clothing that hinders activity and endangers safety.
- In plain terms
- Women's clothes make it hard to ride or swim safely because society demands they cover up.
- What can you take from it?
- Clothing norms often prioritize modesty over function and safety.
Where it applies
Putting it to work
Questions to consider
- How do clothing rules limit physical freedom?
- What changes are needed?
Another view
Cultural or religious values may prioritize modesty over convenience.
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