Renowned writer, Lucy Sante, shares her late-in-life gender transition journey and new memoir. She discusses her admiration for the American Thesaurus of Slang, struggles with questioning her gender identity, and reflections on childhood experiences. Lucy also explores the influence of a poetry class on her teaching and writing style, encounters with artists, and pivotal mentors. She delves into challenges with success, feelings of inadequacy, and the impact of self-acceptance on her life.
Embracing self-discovery and transitioning to live authentically as a woman in her sixties.
Navigating internal struggles and societal judgment while claiming her truth as a woman.
Recognizing the transformative journey towards self-acceptance and personal liberation.
Deep dives
The Seismic Effect of FaceApp Photos in Cracking the Egg
On February 16, 2021, the speaker downloaded FaceApp out of curiosity, specifically for the gender swap function. The experience of seeing transformed images of herself as a woman from various life stages had a profound impact. This process of self-discovery, involving snapshots, ID cards, and social media pictures, eventually led to a seismic realization. It marked a pivotal moment in acknowledging and accepting her desire to live authentically as a woman.
Navigating Initial Fear and Doubt Post-Coming Out
After coming out to her therapist, partner, and later to close friends through a letter, the speaker grappled with a moment of uncertainty. Feeling torn between embracing her authentic self and fearing societal perceptions, she contemplated sending another letter retracting her disclosure. An internal struggle emerged between claiming her truth and the apprehension of potential romantic implications and societal judgment.
Acknowledging Internal Changes and Self-Acceptance
Reflecting on the transition journey, the speaker now embraces a sense of self-awareness and authenticity. Moving beyond the confines of previous repression and shame, she recognizes the transformative process and the personal growth attained through claiming her identity. The understanding that transitioning is an ongoing evolution rather than a static event highlights the continual journey towards self-acceptance and personal liberation.
Shifting Perspectives and Embracing Authenticity
Acknowledging the evolution from a previous identity to embracing her authentic self, the speaker navigates the complexities of shifting perceptions and societal visibility. Despite acknowledging past identities, she now resonates with the idea of boldly manifesting her true self as Lucy Sont. Embracing the complexity of personal growth, she reflects on the journey towards self-realization and acceptance.
The Journey of Self-Discovery and Finding Inner Strength
Navigating the path of self-revelation and overcoming internal conflicts, the speaker delves into the essence of personal identity and self-discovery. Finding strength in vulnerability and authenticity, she confronts past inner struggles and societal norms to assert her true self. Through embracing the transformative process and dissolution of former identities, she embarks on a journey towards freedom and self-empowerment.
Renowned writer, cultural critic, and scholar of the demimonde Lucy Sante joins to discuss her career and a new memoir, “I Heard Her Call My Name,” reflecting on her transition and self-actualization in her sixties.