Roxane Gay, in her book "Bad Feminist," expresses her discomfort with being idealized as a feminist icon. She believes that being placed on a pedestal comes with unrealistic expectations of perfection, which can lead to disappointment when one inevitably falters. By rejecting this pedestal, she acknowledges her own flaws and imperfections, embracing her identity as a "bad feminist."

Gay's perspective encourages a more inclusive understanding of feminism, where the focus is not solely on achieving an unattainable ideal but on recognizing the diverse experiences and challenges faced by individuals. This approach fosters a more authentic and relatable dialogue around feminism, allowing for growth and learning from mistakes rather than striving for an unrealistic standard.