The author Roxane Gay reflects on her initial disavowal of feminism, attributing it to misconceptions and a lack of understanding about the movement. She describes how she was labeled a feminist, which led her to associate it with negative stereotypes, such as being an angry person who dislikes men. This warped perception contributed to her feelings of rejection towards feminism.

Gay emphasizes that these caricatures of feminists are often perpetuated by those who fear the movement's potential success and the changes it could bring to the societal order. The stigma surrounding feminism poses challenges to individuals who might otherwise embrace its ideals, highlighting the need for a deeper, more rational discussion about the goals of feminism and its impact on society.