Overview

• The cover depicts Carpenter kneeling in a black dress and stilettos beside a faceless figure clutching her hair, a composition critics say panders to the male gaze
• Some commentators argue the image undermines feminist progress by presenting one of pop’s leading voices in a submissive, sexualized stance
• Others defend the artwork as a self-aware commentary on gender norms that aligns with Carpenter’s history of using provocation and sexuality in her music
• Since the June 24 reveal, the debate has been fueled on social media by voices ranging from survivors of gender-based violence to fans celebrating the artist’s creative freedom
• Carpenter’s seventh studio album, set for release at the end of August 2025, follows her recent Grammy win and maintains her momentum with over 70 million monthly Spotify listeners