NPR's Book of the Day
In 'All Fours,' Miranda July tackles love, sex and reinvention in middle age
Jan 2, 2025
Miranda July, an innovative writer and filmmaker, discusses her latest novel, All Fours, which challenges societal norms about women in middle age. She shares insights from her interviews with women navigating perimenopause and menopause, revealing their desires for reinvention. July emphasizes the importance of community and connection as women redefine their identities through life transitions. The conversation touches on themes of love, loss, and the exhilarating possibilities that come with embracing change later in life.
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Quick takeaways
- Miranda July's novel 'All Fours' highlights the vibrant stories of middle-aged women seeking reinvention beyond traditional narratives of marriage and motherhood.
- The podcast explores the profound connection between hormonal changes and romantic experiences, emphasizing how aging can reveal new desires and complexities in love.
Deep dives
Exploring the Challenges of Midlife for Women
The discussion highlights the cultural limitations imposed on women in middle age, as expressed through the main character in Miranda July's book, All Fours. After experiencing milestones like marriage and motherhood, women's stories seem to fade from societal narratives, leaving them feeling as though their lives have reached a conclusion. This oversight in cultural representation leads to a sense of disillusionment, as many women struggle to find guidance and acknowledgment for their evolving identities and desires. The author emphasizes that behind the silence is a vibrant community engaged in honest conversations about their bodies, relationships, and longings during this crucial period of life.
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