Bachelor Girl

"Everyone knew in the 1950s why a girl from a nice family left home. The meaning of her theft of herself from her parents was clear to all—as well as what she'd be up to in that room of her own."

Historical context: Throughout history, single women have been viewed with suspicion and often stigmatized. In the 19th century, they were labeled as "spinsters" or "old maids," seen as failures for not fulfilling their supposed destiny of marriage and motherhood. This perception slowly changed as women gained more rights and opportunities.

Shifting perceptions: The evolution of single women's status in society:

• 19th century: Viewed as social outcasts or burdens

• Early 20th century: Increasing acceptance of "working girls"

• Mid-20th century: Growing recognition of women's independence

• Late 20th century onwards: Celebration of diverse lifestyles and choices

As women gained access to education, employment, and birth control, the concept of singlehood transformed from a mark of failure to a symbol of personal autonomy and choice.

"Most of the girls I knew in those years were typists or bookkeepers who had their jobs because they were the only ones who knew how some cigar-reeker of a slob kept his files."

Economic independence: The rise of the "working girl" in the late 19th and early 20th centuries marked a significant shift in women's social and economic status. These women, often young and single, entered the workforce in unprecedented numbers, taking on jobs in factories, offices, and retail establishments.

Challenges faced:

• Low wages and long hours

• Unsafe working conditions

• Sexual harassment and exploitation

• Limited career advancement opportunities

Opportunities gained:

• Financial independence

• Expanded social networks

• Development of new skills

• Increased self-confidence and autonomy

The working girl phenomenon laid the groundwork for future advancements in women's rights and paved the way for greater acceptance of women in the professional world.

"There was a longing to run around with your friends, and talk fast about…pure nothing…. I remember our mothers couldn't understand why we wanted to have many boyfriends, instead of just one."

Cultural shift: The early 20th century saw the emergence of the "bohemian" and "bachelor girl" archetypes, representing a new breed of independent women who challenged traditional norms and expectations.

Characteristics of the new independent woman:

• Lived alone or with female roommates

• Pursued education and careers

• Engaged in romantic relationships without immediate marriage plans

• Explored artistic and intellectual pursuits

These women faced criticism and social stigma but also paved the way for greater acceptance of diverse lifestyles. Their experiences in urban centers like New York City's Greenwich Village became emblematic of a new era of female independence and self-expression.

"Clara Bow, a redhead with a strategically placed beauty mark and a Brooklyn squawk that would ruin her career in the sound era. She played all variety of flapperish working girls—a manicurist in Red Hair (1928), a swimming instructor in Kid Boots (1926), and, among many others, a lingerie shop girl in It (1927), a film that grossed an astonishing one million dollars."

Cultural revolution: The 1920s flapper era represented a dramatic shift in women's fashion, behavior, and attitudes towards sexuality. Flappers challenged traditional notions of femininity and propriety, embracing a more liberated lifestyle.

Flapper characteristics:

• Short hair and provocative fashion

• Smoking and drinking in public

• Dancing to jazz music

• Open discussion of sex and relationships

Impact on society:

• Challenged gender norms and expectations

• Promoted greater sexual freedom for women

• Influenced fashion and popular culture

• Contributed to changing perceptions of single women

The flapper era, though short-lived, had a lasting impact on societal attitudes towards women's independence and sexuality, paving the way for future feminist movements.

"Rosie the Riveter, industrial pinup, her hair back in a snood or kerchief, her body swimming inside overalls, one hand holding the signature blowtorch."

Women in the workforce: World War II brought unprecedented opportunities for women to enter traditionally male-dominated fields. The iconic "Rosie the Riveter" image symbolized the millions of women who joined the workforce to support the war effort.

Key developments:

• Women took on jobs in factories, shipyards, and other industrial settings

• Increased acceptance of women in professional roles

• Expanded childcare services to support working mothers

• Greater recognition of women's capabilities and contributions

Post-war impact: Although many women were encouraged to return to domestic roles after the war, their experiences during this period laid the groundwork for future advancements in women's rights and career opportunities. The "Rosie the Riveter" effect demonstrated women's ability to excel in diverse fields and challenged long-held assumptions about gender roles in the workplace.

"Gloria Steinem, starting here to sound like Gloria Steinem, wrote that 'the development of a new autonomous girl is important and in numbers quite new…. She expects to find her identity neither totally without men nor totally through them…She has work she wants to do and she can…marry later than average, and have affairs if she wishes, but she can also marry without giving up her work.'"

Cultural transformation: The 1960s marked a period of significant social change, particularly for women. The sexual revolution, coupled with advancements in birth control and changing societal attitudes, allowed women greater freedom in their personal and professional lives.

Key developments:

• Introduction of the birth control pill

• Growing acceptance of premarital sex

• Increased opportunities for higher education

• Expansion of women in professional careers

Feminist movement: The 1960s saw the rise of second-wave feminism, which advocated for:

• Equal pay and job opportunities

• Reproductive rights

• Recognition of domestic violence and sexual harassment

• Challenging traditional gender roles

This era laid the foundation for significant legal and social advancements in women's rights, reshaping societal expectations for single women and expanding their life choices.

"I am so lonely I could die. I wake, realize I don't have a boyfriend and put my head in the oven…. I go to parties, night classes, museums, various clubs and mixers with my eyelashes curled hopefully and am wracked with disappointment to find only more hopeful women with curled eyelashes. I go to dinner parties and my throat seizes up with envy as I watch the happy couples, who are my friends. My nights are long with longing. Grief. Also, I have a large bridge in New York to sell you. Ho. Ho. Ho."

Evolving perceptions: In recent decades, singlehood has increasingly been viewed as a valid lifestyle choice rather than a temporary state or personal failure. However, single women still navigate complex societal expectations and personal desires.

Challenges and opportunities:

• Balancing career ambitions with personal relationships

• Facing pressure to marry or have children

• Embracing independence while managing societal judgment

• Exploring diverse relationship models (e.g., cohabitation, polyamory)

Cultural representations: Media portrayals of single women have evolved, offering more nuanced and empowering depictions:

• TV shows like "Sex and the City" and "Girls"

• Films exploring diverse single experiences

• Literature celebrating independence and self-discovery

Modern single women continue to redefine societal norms, challenging traditional expectations while seeking personal fulfillment and happiness on their own terms.