Analysis of "Seven Methods of Killing Kylie Jenner"

Overview

• Playwright: Jasmine Lee-Jones
• Published: 2019
• Main Characters: Cleo and Cara
• Themes: Identity, representation, appropriation, empowerment vs. oppression
• Structure: Seven scenes, each depicting a method of "killing" Kylie Jenner

Plot Summary

• Follows two young black women, Cleo and Cara, discussing issues of identity and cultural appropriation in a social media-driven world.
• The play critiques the appropriation of black culture by mainstream media figures like Kylie Jenner.
• Each scene delves into the relationship between black women and media, portraying empowerment and oppression.

Key Themes

Cultural Appropriation

• Kylie Jenner's Instagram post with cornrows sparks debate.
• Highlights how black culture and bodies are appropriated by white individuals.

Identity Struggles

• Cleo's frustration over limited roles for black actresses.
• Cara's academic focus on black feminism and her identity struggles, feeling "not black enough."

Media Representation and Racism

• The media's biased portrayal and exclusion of black women are central themes.

Social Media's Impact on Mental Health

• Discussed as a source of insecurity and worthlessness.

Black Feminism

• Explores the marginalization of black women within feminist discourse.
• Advocates for intersectional feminism to address unique oppressions faced by black women.

Structure and Style

• Non-linear Structure: Disorienting, challenges audience expectations.
• Social Media Integration: Twitter and Instagram used to convey characters' internal states.
• Monologues: Provide intimate insights into characters' thoughts and motivations.
• Metaphors: The "methods of killing" symbolize societal attempts to silence people of color.
• Music and Sound: Enhances the immersive experience.

Character Analysis

Cleo

• Struggling actress, outspoken, fiercely loyal.
• Experiences anger and vulnerability.
• Sees Kylie Jenner as an emblem of appropriation and erasure.

Cara

• University student, studies black feminism.
• Reserved, rational, struggles with identity.
• Feels conflicted about dating a white man, questions her place in the black community.

Conclusion

• A powerful and thought-provoking commentary on contemporary culture.
• Tackles race, social media, and power dynamics with wit and incisive writing.
• Call to action for recognizing and confronting systemic inequalities.