Afraid Quote by Earnest Poole
““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
Source Speech: Stand‑up routine, New York City, 1990s
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.
