From Madonna to Sabrina Carpenter: The uneven rules of desire in Pop culture
If Sabrina Carpenter was a man, would it bother people this much?
Pop sensation Sabrina Carpenter has responded to the public's divided reaction to the cover art for her upcoming album, "Man's Best Friend." In a recent interview, Carpenter acknowledged the "tsk, tsk, tsk and 'oh my'" comments that emerged after the cover's reveal, which features an image some have described as "submissive" or "sexy." Carpenter stated that she takes these online opinions "with a grain of salt," asserting, "It's perfect for what the album is, it's perfect for, you know, kind of what it represents." She expressed surprise at the backlash, noting that among her close circle and fans, "it just wasn't even a conversation." When asked about her intention behind the cover, Carpenter explained, "My interpretation is being in on the control, being in on your lack of control and when you want to be in control." She elaborated, "I think as a young woman, you're just as aware of when you're in control as when you're not. And I think some of those are choices." Carpenter further revealed that the album explores "the humanity of allowing yourself to make those mistakes, knowing when you're, you know, putting yourself in a situation that will probably end up poorly, but it's going to teach you something." Addressing specific criticisms, including a comment suggesting she "can't have it both ways" if the cover is a satire of how men treat women while also being a straightforward image of a woman being submissive, Carpenter highlighted the multifaceted nature of the artwork. She concluded by stating that her dedicated fans understand the true meaning, while those unfamiliar with her work often jump to conclusions. "They don't know me, they don't know my intentions. They don't know the stories I'm telling," she remarked.
If Sabrina Carpenter was a man, would it bother people this much?
