Taking Up Space

Focusing on representations of women's experiences in contemporary France, this volume examines how women inhabit a variety of work spaces. It also speaks to the importance of cultural productions in calling out labour issues affecting women, as well as in offering a platform that allows us to imagine a future where inclusive and equitable work spaces are the norm. Drawing on Sara Ahmed's phenomenological use of objects, the book explores women's experiences through different metaphors of the door related to labour. The contributors demonstrate how doors are not only closed or open, but also serve as a threshold—or are meant to be blown off. Taken together, the chapters convey how women's work experiences can range from states of oppression to survival and celebration. At the same time, they show how through deliberate stances and actions, various work spaces can become sites of liberation and revolution.