You're like nearly all American women--married or single…
““You're like nearly all American women--married or single, young or old--you're all of you scared to death about sex--just as your Puritan mothers were! And you leave it alone--you keep it down--you never give it a chance--you're afraid! But I'm not afraid--and I'm living my life! And let me tell you I'm not alone! There are hundreds and thousands doing the same--right here in New York City to-night! It's been abroad for years and years--in Rome and Berlin, in Paris and London--and now, thank God, it has come over here! If our husbands can do it, why can't we?””
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
Women often suppress sexuality due to cultural shame, but embracing desire leads to personal freedom and collective change.
In simple terms: Women fear sex because of shame; embracing it frees them.
Key Takeaway
Challenge sexual taboos and claim agency.
Themes
sexuality
freedom
culture
empowerment
Mood
defiant
hopeful
provocative
Type
motivational
social commentary
When to use this quote
- Comedy clubs
- personal relationships
- activism
- media campaigns
Key Concepts
Feminist theory
social conditioning
collective action
Questions to Reflect On
- How does cultural background shape sexual attitudes?
- What steps can individuals take to overcome shame?
A Different Perspective
Not all women share this experience; cultural contexts differ.