For my 8th portfolio post I will be looking at the lyrics of the song, “Irresistible”, from One Direction’s first studio album. This song is a genuine love song that expresses affection and deep feelings for a woman. The song focuses on stating all the reasons that this woman is perfect and is irresistible to them, and most of these reasons are feminine characteristics that the woman is expressing. The first set of lyrics that are important to gender roles are:

It makes your lips so kissable

And your kiss unmissable

Your fingertips so touchable

And your eyes irresistible

The idea of the woman’s kiss, lips, and fingertips show gentleness and affection which are feminine traits. It shows the softness of  feminine touch that women are stereotypically seen to have. Another point of this song is that the men are not portraying stereotypical male characteristics. Men are usually seen to be assertive, aggressive, and strong (physically and emotionally). However, the men are stating throughout the song that they have heartache when this woman leaves. They are vulnerable with their feelings and express how much every part of this woman means to them. Overall we can see how stereotypical feminine and masculine traits are reinforces but also opposed.

Shared by: Abigail Gonnering
Image Credit: Billboard