The Empress Book Club: Join us in conversation w/ Kirsten Miller - May 4th!
Plus, what is it about betrayal and coming into power... that gives you insight?
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Fellow Empresses, Happy Monday…
In Empress Book Club Happenings…
We will be in conversation with Kirsten on Saturday, May 4th at 2 pm EST/11 am PST. Registration is now open. I hope you can join us!
I’ve been thinking about one section of the book and wanted to put it up for thought…
Harriett tells Jo: “I feel like I spent the first twenty years of my life trying to figure shit out. The second twenty I wasted on the wrong people... Then I reached this stage of my life and all that fell away... And for the first time in my life, I knew what the hell I was doing.”
Age and experience have made Harriett smarter and more powerful than ever. But that’s also the moment when her boss and her husband dump her. Does that ring true for you? Have you seen this dynamic at work in your own life?
Harriett's reflection in Kirsten Miller's novel The Change encapsulates a common experience for many midlife women as they navigate through life's stages, grappling with self-discovery, relationships, and personal growth. Her realization that age and experience have made her smarter and more powerful resonates with the idea that wisdom often comes with time and the accumulation of life lessons. However, the juxtaposition of her newfound strength with the betrayal she experiences from her boss and husband raises poignant questions about the complexities of personal empowerment and external challenges.
The notion that Harriett spent the first part of her life trying to figure things out is relatable to many, as the journey of self-discovery and identity formation often begins in youth and continues well into adulthood. The mistakes made and lessons learned during this period contribute significantly to personal growth and resilience. Similarly, the idea of wasting time on the wrong people is a common theme in human relationships, where individuals may invest energy and emotions in connections that ultimately prove detrimental or unfulfilling.
As Harriett reaches a stage of clarity and self-assurance, her newfound confidence is a testament to the transformative power of experience and introspection. This echoes real-life experiences where individuals, after overcoming challenges and learning from past mistakes, emerge stronger, wiser, and more capable of navigating life's complexities.
However, the narrative also highlights the harsh reality that personal empowerment does not shield one from external difficulties or betrayals.
What do you think about Harriet’s observations? Have you ever experienced anything similar? I know I’ve struggled with this, especially in the corporate world. And now, I just call it out… “You’re triangulating, buddy… My kid still hasn’t stopped that maneuver.” And you should see their faces.
Let us know your thoughts below in the comments or discuss with the author herself!
Yours in Grandeur & Deep Sh*t,
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I liked reading this book, but the ending was Meh.
The glorification of Crone Characters really wasn’t all it’s cracked up to be.
The author kept hyping how beautiful the women were, reigniting my body shame on each page.
Hardly a Step Forward in Representation.
Middle age for women is basically acceptance of the fact that you’re just a head on an invisible body.
Woo hoo! I’m so excited for this book group and to meet the author! I loved The Change.