Self-Made Man: My Year Disguised as a Man by Norah Vincent is a bold and fascinating memoir that recounts the author’s 18-month experiment where she lived as a man, adopting the persona of “Ned” to explore the intricacies of male identity and experience.
In this daring project, Vincent infiltrates male-dominated spaces such as a bowling league, a monastery, strip clubs, and a men’s support group, immersing herself in situations that most women would never experience. To convincingly pass as a man, Vincent adopts various physical modifications, from a buzz cut and a chest-flattening sports bra to a fake five o’clock shadow and voice training. She gains the trust of men, forming close friendships, participating in their activities, and even dating women, all while concealing her true identity.
The book explores the emotional and psychological impact of this experiment, offering a unique perspective on gender roles, societal expectations, and how men navigate their own identities. Vincent’s experiment ultimately reveals surprising truths about the barriers men face and the vulnerability of their emotional lives, while also challenging her own understanding of gender and human connection.
