Charlotte Shane’s new memoir, *An Honest Woman*, challenges the stereotypical portrayal of sex work often found in tabloids. Instead of sensationalism, Shane offers a deeper, more carefully crafted narrative that centers female pleasure and its absence in a world typically dominated by male perspectives. This approach is revolutionary, as it bravely confronts the topic of sex without resorting to gratuitous glamour or exploitative narratives.
Shane’s work aims to tell a story about sex work without the usual cliches. In a recent interview with Vogue, she discussed her favorite depictions of sex work in art and media. She highlighted the impact of Virginie Despentes’s *King Kong Theory* and Carol Leigh’s writings, as well as more politically charged works like Melissa Gira Grant’s *Playing the Whore*, Heather Berg’s *Porn Work*, and Juno Mac and Molly Smith’s *Revolting Prostitutes*. She also mentioned Legs McNeil and Jennifer Osborne’s *The Other Hollywood*, Suzy Favor Hamilton’s memoir *Fast Girl*, and Katherine Faw’s *Ultraluminous*. Shane’s favorites also include the film *Hustlers*, and classics like *Klute* and *Working Girls*. However, if she had to recommend just one piece of media, it would be the 1975 documentary *The Prostitutes of Lyon Speak*.
When asked about what she wishes people understood about sex work, Shane emphasized the detrimental impact of criminalization. She argued that criminalization endangers sex workers, even when they are not the direct target of violence, as seen with the so-called Nordic model. She explained that sex work is a job, a way to earn a living, and that people choose it for economic reasons. While acknowledging individual preferences and discomfort, Shane firmly asserts that these feelings do not justify harming sex workers. The criminalization of their work, along with the associated stigma, makes them vulnerable to exploitation and harm.
The discussion also explored the evolving concept of privacy in the digital age, particularly relevant for a writer who shares deeply personal experiences. Shane expressed her frustration with the common perception of her writing as “freakishly candid” and “so honest”. She challenged this perspective, arguing that personal writing should be inherently personal, and that focusing on thoughts, motivations, and responses is part of being rigorous. She believes that sex is not inherently private, as most people have experienced it, and that society’s over-emphasis on its taboo nature hinders open and honest discussions.
To convey her insights effectively, Shane prioritizes providing context and details about the circumstances that inspired her ideas. However, she also acknowledges the need for privacy, recognizing that there are aspects of her life she chooses not to share with strangers. She believes that true privacy is increasingly rare in a world of constant surveillance and pressure to create content. This has led her to yearn for greater anonymity, not out of shame, but because she dislikes feeling involuntarily exposed, such as having to attach her image to her writing. She views privacy as a choice, emphasizing the importance of being able to choose when, how, and why we share our lives.
When asked about a more honest view of sex in society, Shane suggested a more mature attitude is needed. She believes that Americans, in particular, suffer from a sexually self-destructive approach because they refuse to normalize sex. She stressed the importance of providing accurate and non-judgmental information about sex, especially to young people, when it is most needed. She criticized the tendency to equate sex solely with vaginal penetration, neglecting other forms of sexual expression. She also emphasized the importance of debunking myths about pain and discomfort during first sexual experiences, assuring young people that these experiences are diverse and unique to each individual. Shane concludes by advocating for a more mature, honest, and supportive approach to sex, one that moves beyond panic, hysteria, and fear towards a more nuanced and accepting understanding of human sexuality.
