In "Not That Bad: Dispatches from Rape Culture," author Roxane Gay explores the societal perception of women, particularly those who express anger. She argues that angry women are often labeled as villains, which reflects a broader trend of dismissing their feelings and concerns. This dismissal serves to silence women who bravely confront issues of sexism and abuse, reinforcing negative stereotypes about their emotional responses.

Gay's statement highlights a cultural issue where women's anger is stigmatized, while anger in men is often normalized or justified. By portraying angry women as villains, society undermines their experiences and the validity of their frustrations. This narrative limits the conversation around women's rights and issues related to gender-based violence, emphasizing the need for a shift in how we view and discuss women's emotions.