Independent Student Newspaper for the University of Texas at San Antonio

The Paisano

Independent Student Newspaper for the University of Texas at San Antonio

The Paisano

Independent Student Newspaper for the University of Texas at San Antonio

The Paisano

Counterpoint: The pumpkin spice latte

Finally, the best season of the year is here. There are so many reasons to love fall; the leaves change colors, you can finally wear your favorite, cozy sweaters and the sweet and spicy smell of pumpkin spice wafts through coffee shops.

Starbuck’s debuted the beloved pumpkin spice latte 16 years ago and according to Forbes, sells an average of 20 million each year.  The PSL is an inanimate object and shouldn’t be gendered, but alas, every fall, women and girls are ridiculed for their excitement toward the seasonal beverage.

There are social media accounts (such as @brosbeingbasic) dedicated exclusively to mocking girls’ love of fall activities: wearing leggings, visiting pumpkin patches and of course, purchasing that perfect combination of espresso, milk, pumpkin, nutmeg, cinnamon and clove.

Women who drink PSLs are called “basic” which is really just coded language to dismiss “feminine” interests. If a trend emerges, and the majority of participants are women, it’s described as basic. The puppy filter on Snapchat, Taylor Swift and the PSL are just a few examples.

These interests are no less vapid than say, fantasy football. But “masculine” hobbies are afforded a legitimacy and understanding that women’s are not. Men: stop dismissing women by calling us basic and let us live! Fall is wonderful and the PSL is delicious. Reject the fragile concept of masculinity and give it a try. Your tastebuds will thank you.

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