Meaning: Virginia Woolf, a prominent English writer, famously stated that "a writer must be androgynous." This statement highlights the idea that in order to produce great literature, a writer must possess both masculine and feminine traits, transcending traditional gender roles and embracing a fluidity of expression. Building upon this concept, Rita Mae Brown, an American writer and activist, took it a step further by proclaiming, "You must be bisexual." This quote challenges the conventional understanding of sexuality and suggests that writers should embody a broad spectrum of experiences and perspectives in order to create compelling and authentic narratives.

When considering Virginia Woolf's assertion that writers must be androgynous, it is important to delve into the context of her work and the societal norms of her time. Woolf, a prominent figure in the modernist literary movement, was known for her exploration of gender and identity in her writing. In her essay "A Room of One's Own," she discussed the limitations that women faced in the literary world, arguing that in order to produce truly great works, women needed both financial independence and freedom from societal expectations. Woolf's concept of androgyny in writing can be seen as a call for writers to transcend the constraints of gender and tap into a more universal and inclusive mode of expression.

Rita Mae Brown's extension of Woolf's idea by stating that writers must be bisexual adds a layer of complexity to the discussion. Brown, who is known for her feminist and LGBTQ+ activism, is likely referring to the need for writers to embrace a multiplicity of perspectives and experiences. By using the term "bisexual," she may be alluding to the idea of writers needing to be open to and capable of encompassing diverse viewpoints, emotions, and identities in their work. This expanded notion of bisexuality goes beyond its traditional association with sexuality and encompasses a broader understanding of embracing the complexity and richness of human experience.

In the context of literature, the idea of writers being androgynous or bisexual can be interpreted as a call for greater empathy, understanding, and inclusivity in storytelling. It suggests that in order to create truly impactful and resonant narratives, writers must be able to transcend their own personal experiences and embrace a wide range of perspectives, emotions, and identities. This requires a willingness to step outside of societal norms and preconceived notions, and to deeply connect with the human experience in all its diversity.

Furthermore, the concept of androgyny and bisexuality in writing can be seen as a challenge to the traditional binary classifications of gender and sexuality. It encourages writers to explore the fluidity and complexity of human identity, rather than adhering to rigid categories. This approach can lead to the creation of more nuanced and authentic characters and narratives that reflect the diversity of human existence.

In conclusion, the quotes by Virginia Woolf and Rita Mae Brown about writers being androgynous and bisexual provide thought-provoking insights into the nature of literary expression. They call upon writers to transcend traditional gender and sexual boundaries, and to embrace a broad spectrum of experiences and perspectives in their work. By doing so, writers can create more inclusive, empathetic, and powerful narratives that resonate with a diverse range of readers.