Popular culture idealizes the life of horny single women in NYC -- after all, there wouldn't be a second Sex and the City movie about to come out if people weren't so fascinated. But the reality of it is a lot more complicated and a lot more naughty than anything you see on TV.
Few write about their crazy single female life in NYC with greater aplomb -- and lets her readers in on all the really dirty details -- than Imogene Lee. She recently penned a very revealing article about her exploits in The New York Press and also maintains blog called Cruising with the Awesome Slut. She writes with an honesty that burns through your screen. Best of all, her writes really well, combining raw honesty with excellent prose.
You could call her an Erica Jong 2.0.
Imogene was kind enough to answer a few questions for Mr NYC readers about what it's like to be a single woman in NYC -- and what makes her so awesome.
Few write about their crazy single female life in NYC with greater aplomb -- and lets her readers in on all the really dirty details -- than Imogene Lee. She recently penned a very revealing article about her exploits in The New York Press and also maintains blog called Cruising with the Awesome Slut. She writes with an honesty that burns through your screen. Best of all, her writes really well, combining raw honesty with excellent prose.
You could call her an Erica Jong 2.0.
Imogene was kind enough to answer a few questions for Mr NYC readers about what it's like to be a single woman in NYC -- and what makes her so awesome.
What made you start your blog and what makes you so awesome?
I started my blog to chronicle my dating experiences, especially after realizing what I was seeking is probably not the average "relationship" by societal standards. It was the summer where I thought I was found by a former lover but ultimately, I lost him, and I was emotionally devastated. I threw myself into what might well be considered a fuck frenzy with strangers, trying to find some solace. In the process, I thought I should catalog everything so I could monitor my thoughts, emotions, and impetus.
What makes me awesome? I'm intelligent, well-educated, and support feminism. I don't want to say "I'm a feminist" because that would label me, and labels are very limiting.
I started my blog to chronicle my dating experiences, especially after realizing what I was seeking is probably not the average "relationship" by societal standards. It was the summer where I thought I was found by a former lover but ultimately, I lost him, and I was emotionally devastated. I threw myself into what might well be considered a fuck frenzy with strangers, trying to find some solace. In the process, I thought I should catalog everything so I could monitor my thoughts, emotions, and impetus.
What makes me awesome? I'm intelligent, well-educated, and support feminism. I don't want to say "I'm a feminist" because that would label me, and labels are very limiting.
Do you resent the double standard when it comes to men vs. women who sleep around?
Of course I do. But I find that in my circle of friends, that doesn't really happen. Sex is an enjoyable act -- why should people be shamed for having it?
Of course I do. But I find that in my circle of friends, that doesn't really happen. Sex is an enjoyable act -- why should people be shamed for having it?
Is it hard to be a single woman in NYC? Do you want to settle down?
No, it's not hard at all, but it does get disheartening since the majority of my friends and family are coupled up. When that happens, they tend to disappear and become reclusive in their domesticity. I admit, I go through bouts of loneliness, where I'd love to come home to someone who's got dinner ready and a willing ear. (Maybe I should just get a roommate...or a big dog.)
Do I want to settle down? At some point, yes. I've had long term, serious, committed relationships in the past, and I am not averse to one, but I think at this point in my life I'm not just ready for it. My finances, living situation and precarious job situation all make me not really a viable "girlfriend" option.
No, it's not hard at all, but it does get disheartening since the majority of my friends and family are coupled up. When that happens, they tend to disappear and become reclusive in their domesticity. I admit, I go through bouts of loneliness, where I'd love to come home to someone who's got dinner ready and a willing ear. (Maybe I should just get a roommate...or a big dog.)
Do I want to settle down? At some point, yes. I've had long term, serious, committed relationships in the past, and I am not averse to one, but I think at this point in my life I'm not just ready for it. My finances, living situation and precarious job situation all make me not really a viable "girlfriend" option.
You share a lot about your private life on your blog. Tell us something about yourself that we don't know?
I suffered from depression and anxiety for years and was on antidepressants for a long time. I don't want to say that I'm fully out of the woods but I tapered off the medication at the beginning of this year and it's surprising how my outlook has changed. Things seem much more optimistic for me, and I do believe that positive thinking helps to encourage further progression towards healing. I'm still fragile though, despite putting forth a really tough exterior.
Finally, what do you love about NYC?
There's anything you want, any time you want. I am spoiled. In what other city can I walk out the door and get pierogies, pineapple pizza and a Pepsi at 4am?
Thanks Imogene!
I was depressed about my marriage, went to see a psychiatrist, he gave me antidepressants that made me groggy and upset my stomach. I was on them for a week, then quit. Now I have a lover, no longer depressed about my marriage. Sometimes you just need two or more men in your life.
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