The article "Michael Jackson: Symbol of Masculinity" challenges the common perception of Michael Jackson as effeminate, presenting him as an embodiment of true, non-toxic masculinity through his assertiveness, work ethic, kindness, creativity, parenthood, and spirituality.
Abstract
The article on Medium titled "Michael Jackson: Symbol of Masculinity" refutes the stereotype of Michael Jackson as a "girly man" by highlighting various aspects of his life that exemplify traditional masculine qualities. It emphasizes his assertiveness in personal relationships, notably his refusal to be controlled by Madonna, and his demand for respect towards children. The piece also commends Jackson's strong work ethic, noting his pursuit of perfection in his craft and his professional dealings, including firing those who did not meet his standards. Jackson's kindness and global empathy are portrayed as qualities that made him a beloved figure, akin to a king caring for his subjects. His passion and creativity, particularly in his music and dance, are celebrated as attractive and inspiring traits. The article further praises Jackson's role as a father, noting his balance between strictness and compassion. Lastly, it touches on his spiritual strength, rooted in his upbringing as a Jehovah's Witness, and how his principles guided his life choices. The author concludes by expressing optimism in the existence of men with such qualities and the importance of fostering more men like Michael Jackson.
Opinions
Michael Jackson is portrayed as a masculine icon, contrary to popular belief that labeled him as effeminate.
The author admires Jackson's assertiveness, particularly in his relationship with Madonna, where he stood his ground and did not compromise his values.
Jackson's work ethic and demand for excellence are seen as commendable leadership qualities.
His kindness, not just towards his family but to all people, is highlighted as a defining characteristic that contributed to his global appeal.
Jackson's creativity and passion for his work are considered to be key elements of his sex appeal and legacy.
The article suggests that Jackson's strict yet loving approach to parenting was admirable and effective.
The author respects Jackson's spiritual strength and adherence to principles, which are attributed to his religious upbringing.
There is an underlying call to action to cultivate more men with the qualities exemplified by Michael Jackson.
The piece concludes with a personal endorsement for readers to subscribe to the author's Medium page and support their work financially.
There are a lot of things to love about Michael Jackson.
His music was awesome, his dance moves creative, and if he wasn’t one of the most handsome men that ever lived, I don’t know who is.
But one thing that’s rarely discussed about MJ is how MASCULINE he was.
Yeah, you heard me!
Most people considered Mike a girly man, but sheesh! Men today could learn a lot from Mike. Let Michael Jackson teach you about true masculinity, which is on no way TOXIC.
So what makes Mike an “All True Man” and a KING?
He wasn’t no Simp
One of the things that surprised me about Michael Jackson was the story of how things went down when he dated Madonna.
Apparently Madonna wanted to change Michael Jackson and was trying to make him less “weird.” She would get mad at him and try to change his style and make him more “normal.” Michael told her (as respectfully and gently as he could, I’m sure) to go take a hike.
“B***h, if you don’t go sit yo “Like a Virgin,” “Lucky Star,” ass down somewhere. Go take a “Holiday” from my nerves…”
lol. Nah, Mike had too much class for that, but I wouldn’t be surprised if he thought it.
There was another story about how Michael Jackson and Madonna were at a restaurant when a child recognized the two mega stars and excitedly rushed over to get an autograph. Madonna was straight up rude to the poor little kid and told him to go away. But Michael was quick to put her in her place and protect the child. You don’t treat children like that in front of the KING!
Remember, the 80’s were still way more racist than most of us today understand. Michael Jackson was the first black artist to get played on MTV. So for a skinny, gentle, black man to stand up to a beautiful blonde vixen like Madonna, at the time, was something.
A weaker man would have let Madonna get away with all that bratty behavior if they thought they had the slightest chance of sleeping with her. But not Mike. It takes more than some big titties to make him lose his principals!
He cracked that whip when it was needed
Michael Jackson didn’t play games when it came to work. Though there are no reports of him being a tyrant, it is said he demanded perfection. There are “rumors” of how he fired managers, and fired his music director on stage (ouch)
Don’t let the Mickey Mouse voice fool you. MJ was a boss when he needed to be.
He was a hard worker
Michael's dedication to his craft is inspiring, and he’s always been one of my heroes since I was a child. Yes, he demanded perfection from the people working for him, but not anymore then he demanded perfection from himself. He’s a great role model, especially if you are in a more creative field.
He was Kind
And that was one of Michael's most attractive qualities. It’s one of the things that had women all over the world screaming and fainting at the sight of him.
It’s one thing to be kind and protective with your wife or family members, but Michael was that way with the whole world. That’s truly what made him a “King,” because he cared for the people as if he was their king.
He was Passionate and Creative
A man who is passionate is SEXY. And Mike was passionate about his work, seemingly all facets of it.
His creativity is amazing. Everything from his dance moves, to his style, to his music.
He seemed to be a good father
I was surprised to see how Michael Jackson interacted with his kids, and he was stricter and more authoritarian than I thought. He was no hard ass parent, but he doesn’t hesitate to direct his children, tell them wrong from right, and discipline them when they need it.
He was spiritually strong
I’m someone who takes following their God seriously, and I’m happy to know Mike was like me in that respect. Michael was careful of the things he eats, how he treats people, and what he says. He has strong principals, and he sticks to them. Much of this may be attributed to being raised in a Jahovah's Witness household.
Sometimes I start to lose heart in the men today…but when I do, I think of MJ and feel much better about men!
As long as kind-hearted men like this exist in the world, we will be okay. Now on to the rough task of trying to cultivate more of these kinds of men…
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