Problem
In approximately 300 words, write your own version of Jamaica Kincaid's "Girl" about the instructions you received about gender norms as a child - either how to conform to them - or, maybe depending on the people around you, how to challenge them - from authority figures. Structure your story the way that she structured "Girl," only with your life at the center.
You might also begin think about how race, class, national origin, sexuality., gender roles and expectations and/or other aspects of your life were intertwined with the messages you received about gender norms.
Note that the "speaker" in this writing will be a composite of the messages you received. In your short writing assignment you might however imagine them as a single voice, such as that of a parent, guardian, or some other adult role that was advisory and a little disciplinary.