In "Girl," Kincaid explores the fear that permeates nearly all societies related to women and their role in the community. The greatest fear expressed is that of defamation: being seen as a harlot or an unclean woman.

The girl is educated about the ways of both boys and men, implying that she is somewhere in her adolescent years, transitioning from girl to woman. This education includes tips such as "you mustn't speak to wharf-rat boys, not even to give directions." Later, the narrator advises on handling men and ensuring that you are seen as virtuous and chaste.

Repeatedly, the girl is warned of how she can be seen as disgraceful. In one instance, she is reminded not to become a specific "type" of woman, the "type of woman the baker won't allow near the bread." The advisor seems to be an older woman with some authority over the girl, possibly her mother. The advice she gives is direct and discards the girl's emotional needs.

In "Girl," we hear very little from the protagonist. Instead, we hear from the advisor, covering many topics including how to perfect domestic skills, how to handle men you like and men you detest. The goal is to prepare the girl for the patriarchal world. The greatest fear is that the girl will fail to navigate that world and will be forever labeled as a woman of ill repute.