This editorial is written by one of my grade 10 students. Editorials are basically newspaper articles that present an opinion on an issue. Editorials draw both upon elements of argumentation as well as the elements of persuasion; hence, the writer has tried to appeal not only to readers’ logic but also to their emotion.
Genuine Beauty
Are geishas genuinely beautiful? Today, in order to satisfy Japanese beauty standards, geishas are consumed in the desire to obtain a perfect image, achieved through wearing intricately crafted kimonos, elegant hairstyles, and a visage fully padded with white powder. This obsession with beauty not only confines the sincere personality of one’s self but also discriminates against one’s talents and skills, making visual appeal top priority.
Geishas are considered works of art and hence are called professional artisans. As contemporary pieces of artwork, they must conceal their own identities to cater to and entertain their male patrons whenever desired. Their entire career hinges on pulchritude, for they are assessed by clients who overlook factors such as individuality and intelligence, paying all attention to their visuals. In other words, if they are physically attractive, they are guaranteed to become successful in having a career as a geisha. Such an unhealthy obsession with appearance has certainly pushed the geishas’ personality to the margin, overshadowing their human aspects.
But it is not just personality that is being overlooked. Talent, which is a key to success for geishas, plays an insignificant role. Surely a geisha may excel at dancing and playing the shamisen, but what if they are not physically attractive? Well, the truth is, if a geishas’ visuals are not above par, clients will acknowledge neither their talent nor even their presence. Exceptional physique and countenance vanquish skill and expertise as clients call upon geishas solely for physical pleasure and delectation.
This obsession with beauty can not only undermine the value of true personality but also can overshadow skills and talents. One needs to be reminded that real beauty rises from one’s inner self, which makes people unique and inimitable. The bottom line is that how one appears on the outside does not determine how one is on the inside as being oneself is the most beautiful thing one can be.