Is it OK for a man to write from a woman’s perspective?
Cozy mysteries are a popular genre in the literary world and provide readers with a quick enjoyable read which is why they continue to grow in huge numbers. Mysteries also often come in sets, allowing the reader to keep up with the protagonist as the hero encounters a never-ending list of quirky suspects and entertaining escapades.
The series format works because readers grow fond of the central character, and if done correctly, each new book grows with help from a captured audience. And with each new book, we get to know the protagonist all the more—as comfortable as reconnecting with siblings when we go home for Christmas.
But what happens when the central character in a book or a series of books is a woman, and the author is male? Does it matter? Should it?
This probably isn’t a yes/no answer. A variant of this question is being asked today in the movie industry, as we ask if it’s art or misogyny for actors to play roles outside of their gender/race/identity.
While reading a book recently, told from the perspective of a female crime solver, I couldn’t help but cringe at the many passages written by this male author. No woman says that, I caught myself thinking more than once as I read the flowery prose, sighing at the numerous sex scenes where our central character basked in the strong arms of her man. Again, and again, and… (Cue the eye roll.)
Of course, many authors write in a voice that differs from their own. Where would we be if authors weren’t allowed to reach beyond their own personal opinions and identity. Authors are in the glorious position of being able to embrace every character—male, female, old, young, angry, timid or brash. Every character within the pages is part of the author, and a good writer embraces the many different nuances, actions and feelings of each role. It’s part of the writing process.
But … is it another thing, when a male author writes from the sole perspective of a woman, in not just one, but in a complete series of books? As a self-described feminist who champions women’s voices, I ask, “Do we need another man telling us how women feel?” It’s an honest question … and I’m listening.
