Despite being Irish, Sinéad O’Connor wasn't part of Irish Catholic household. In the 90s and 00s, perceived as awkward and problematic.
Sinéad O’Connor seen as a problem in Ireland and mainstream culture. Not embraced in Irish Catholic homes.
As an adult, the writer began to appreciate Sinéad's talent, activism, and influence. Jealous of those who grew up with her music.
Sinéad faced misunderstanding, malignment, and ridicule from music industry, Catholic church. Seen as a commercial image and discarded later.
Sinéad's depth and duality made her beloved by passionate fans. She defied expectations, exposing hypocrisy of one-dimensional portrayal.
Sinéad resisted industry pressure, kept her pregnancy, defying norms. Early press shots revealed her as a disruptor, rule-breaker.
Iconic image: Shaved head, pregnant, wearing T-shirt that reads WEAR A CONDOM. Symbol of her defiance and pushing back against injustice.
In 1987, Sinéad's shaved head was a rejection of the male gaze, even before the term was common. It was brave and defiant.
She kept the shaved head, facing hardships, as it freed her from societal expectations. Mistaken for Enya when hair grew out.
Sinéad fought for the album cover's atavistic scream. The powerful image was deemed too aggressive for US audiences; a different cover was used.