Mavis Haut

16 Takes on a Self-Invented Woman invokes ideas and actions issuing from a specifically feminine consciousness. It fixes on moments of crystallization where feminism contributes to an independent female identity and, in defiance of overridingly masculinist definitions, is able to effect, predict or justify the need for cultural changes. 'Second-wave' feminists had already recognised the value of an all-inclusive woman's self-understanding in 'consciousness-raising' groups and the fusion of political and personal, and this text revives or re-presents a few pivotal concerns of that period - difference, rationality, 'masculine'/ 'feminine' still need to be discussed. The book then interrogates other subjects - marriage, the romantic, passive eroticism, masochism, Freud, masquerade, monotheism, pornography, women's language, writing and silence, gender roles, the mother, etc. It references both traditional and unorthodox ideas, texts and materials and, in conclusion, describes the tight collaboration of 'third-wave' feminism with late twentieth-century philosophical ideas and broader cultural movements. Though underestimated in its time, third-wave feminism led directly to the freedom, confidence and rapid spread of feminism's 'fourth wave'. The fast-evolving community of fourth-wave feminists is characterised by mass movements such as 'one billion rising' and by their inclusion of the limitless possibilities of women of all ages, circumstances, cultures and preoccupations.

Despite the great diversity of settings in Tanith Lee's novels--from the pre-historic origins of Christianity to robot-dominated futurescapes--certain underlying thoughts and references appear consistently. While adhering formally to many of the writing conventions of the fantasy, science fiction and horror genres, Lee also engages the meaning of myths of the Greeks (particularly Dionysos), Egyptians, Persians and Indians. The dynamics of magic, alchemy, shamanism, Gnosticism and reincarnation also surface frequently. This critical work examines Lee's highly original applications of such themes and subtexts. Less prominent themes are also covered, as well as her insights into human nature, her humor, her numerous tributes to literature, her comments on writing, her games with space, time and language, and her preoccupation with detail and background. Also included is an interview with Tanith Lee, a bibliography of Lee's work, a general bibliography, and an index.