These Feminist Lines By 'Friends' Rachel, Phoebe And Monica Haven't Aged

Binge-watching the show 'Friends' might be one of your favourite past times. The show has been extremely popular for its humour, storyline, and characters. And somehow we all go through a 'Friends' phase. In fact, the show celebrated its 25th anniversary in 2019. Incidentally, it's a show that never dies. But next time you watch the show, laugh at all the comedy but also do ponder upon certain dialogues too.

The three female leads of the 10 season show-Rachel Green, Phoebe Buffay and Monica Geller have in fact said some iconic lines throughout the series. While some of the lines are hilarious, some are extremely empowering, inspirational and brings out the feminist in the characters.

Here are 9 feminist quotes from the show of the leading ladies that need to be heard in 2021 for it is most relevant even now.

"No uterus, No opinion"- Rachel 

This line is probably a confrontation of men who do not have respect for women and the pain we endure. The pressure that women have in our society to get married and have children is still at its peak in the 21st century. 

"I wish I could, but I don't want to"-Phoebe

Pheobe teaches you the art of saying 'no'. Probably we women have always been bossed over and not standing up against have in fact led us to not say 'no'. But cultivating the habit of saying 'no' is very significant for women's empowerment.

"I don't even have a 'pla'"-Phoebe

Desi children live inside a pressure cooker most of the time. There is the pressure of academics, then job, family and the list goes on. What are your plans now? Often we give in to the pressure of not having a perfect plan. Several suicides in our country are a result of this.

"Marriage. It's not for everybody"-Monica

Monica had said this way back in the 1990s. But people still don't realise this. Though her context was a little different the implication of the dialogue remains the same 25 years apart also. As we step into our twenties, some of us are forced to marry. Our Indian society especially still deems marriage as the only 'appropriate' relationship. 

"See? Unisex"-Rachel

 When Rachel said these lines 26 years ago, it was still an obnoxious term. But today global fashion houses are front runners in promoting unisex fashion. Popular celebrities including Harry Styles, BTS, and even Bollywood actor Ranveer Singh have often seen breaking gender norms through their fashion.

Harry Styles in skirts for British Vogue and BTS performing with make-up are positive steps of a great cause.

"It's like all of my life, everyone has always told me, 'You're a shoe, you're a shoe, you're a shoe, you're a shoe.' And then today, I just stopped and I said, 'What if I don't want to be a shoe? What if I want to be a purse, you know? Or a hat?'"-Rachel

Do not be afraid to be the real you. Society might demean and throw stones at you for standing out. But be it following your dreams, expressing your sexuality, or choosing not to marry, these must be your personal choice.

"I need you to be careful and efficient. And remember: If I am harsh with you, it's only because you're doing it wrong." -Monica

All women of this century of change may take a few notes from Monica here. From a long history of oppression, women are finally discovering a light out of the cave. Whether it be your boss, your partner, or your friend, do not hesitate to call out injustice. Women empowerment is taking long strides, so do not lag and start voicing your opinion.

"YOU are the boss of you"-Pheobe

Once again, Pheobe reminds you to be independent and opinionated. Women are now standing shoulder to shoulder in all fields. Hence it is most important than ever to raise voices against any violence.  

Chandler: "Pheobe, What’s a queen without her king?" Phoebe: "Well, historically better." Ross: "Okay, so what’s Juliet without Romeo?" Rachel: “Alive!”

This conversation highlights the stereotypical notion of how a woman is only complete with a man. While love and a companion might be necessary, dreams and being independent is more relevant during this time. Without being empowered, women will still continued to be oppressed. Women must prove that a queen can successfully rule a kingdom without a king too.