Story perspectives

Debate Erupts Over Lindy West's Feminism in Memoir

3/31/2026

Left

West Challenges Feminism

Lindy West's memoir Adult Braces has sparked a debate about the relevance of millennial feminism.
Critics say her narrative of entering polyamory with her husband signals a troubling shift in feminist ideals.
The memoir highlights the complexities of her marriage and feminism's evolving nature amid backlash including Roe v. Wade's overturning.
West's contributions to feminist discourse remain significant, including her advocacy for body positivity.

Right

Lewis Critiques Feminism

Observation of a table promoting a movement for women in the cannabis industry sparked discussion about millennial feminism's relevance.
Helen Lewis argues in an essay about Lindy West's memoir that early internet feminism devolves into a caricature.
She says the movement once felt liberating but now demands conformity like a "voluntary lobotomy."
Lewis critiques West's memoir as emblematic of this decline and suggests millennial feminism may be past its prime.

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West Challenges Feminism

Lindy West's memoir Adult Braces has sparked a debate about the relevance of millennial feminism.
Critics say her narrative of entering polyamory with her husband signals a troubling shift in feminist ideals.
The memoir highlights the complexities of her marriage and feminism's evolving nature amid backlash including Roe v. Wade's overturning.
West's contributions to feminist discourse remain significant, including her advocacy for body positivity.

1 / 2