Tuesday, February 2, 2016

Blog Post #1


Shredded is the word that Roxanne Edwards uses to describe her physique. She is more than ripped or cut-up, but less than peeled. "Peeled is when you look at me and you can see right through me." She may not consider her body to be peeled yet, but her conscious sure is. The way she speaks in the interview sounds like she enjoys sharing her story, she has no shame, and endless confidence. I applaud her humbleness though, "In terms of superhuman, not so much. I'm just a more open version of a human." This level of openness allows us to understand her for what she is. I enjoy how she has "unshackled her handcuffs" because it allows us to really see her for what she is and makes it easy to accept her. It is easier to accept someone who is open about their feelings and emptions because those are things that make us human. Despite Roxanne's extreme dedication to her bodybuilding lifestyle, she does not view herself as greater than those who do not work out. I admire that she expresses her femininity the way she feels fit and encourages others to do the same. Roxanne is a model for being accepting of herself and all others despite any differences they may have. A quote from the essay, "Everywhere man makes himself a path; he ventures into all realms of the essent, of the overwhelming power, and in doing so he is flung out of all paths." I find this quote relatable to Roxanne's ideology that her body physique is an expression of her femininity because we are all born with a blank canvas to write and each of us, despite any influencing factors, ultimately has the power to create ourselves, to unshackle our own handcuffs and open up to the world around us. Roxanne started bodybuilding so she would look good naked and was now quoted, "bodybuilding is the best thing you can ever do for yourself." Her extreme body confidence has translated into her overall attitude towards life. The concept of the absence/rejection of ordinary/verbal language in bodybuilding is intriguing to me. I do not work out but often find myself absent of language, watching and listening to others speak; not to judge, accept, or reject them; but to observe and attempt to understand the differences between us all. Roxanne seems to be the opposite of myself; comfortable with flirting with anyone and showing off her body. Roxanne's extreme dedication to her body is apparent considering the long list of vitamins and body aids she consumes. This particular aspect of her life reminds me of the Patrick character we discussed from the film 'American Psycho,' who was equally as body-obsessed. Although both people are striving for perfection, they are still tremendously different. I waited until after listening to the interview to view the photos of Roxanne and I was still blown away by her physique. Her discipline is obvious and she looks extremely happy with herself. I consider myself as a straight male, and to me Patrick is more attractive than Roxanne. This just furthers the concept that everyone has their own idea of perfection.

No comments:

Post a Comment