Fear of Flying by Erica Jong follows Isadora Zelda White Stollerman Wing, a Jewish journalist and erotic poet, on a trip to Vienna with her husband. There, she embarks on an affair with another man, exploring her sexual fantasies and personal ambitions. The novel delves into themes of female sexuality, systemic oppression, and self-acceptance, making it significant in feminist literature for its nuanced portrayal of marginalized identities. The book contains instances of rape, sexual assault, and intimate partner violence.

Humorous

Challenging

Emotional

Romantic

Bittersweet

Reviews & Readership

3.7

23,776 ratings

51%

Loved it

32%

Mixed feelings

17%

Not a fan

Review Roundup

Erica Jong's Fear of Flying is celebrated for its candid exploration of female sexuality and independence, making it a groundbreaking feminist novel. Critics praise its humor, boldness, and relatable protagonist. However, some argue that its explicit content and dated references may alienate contemporary readers. Despite mixed views, its cultural impact endures.

Who Should Read Fear of Flying?

Readers who relish Fear of Flying by Erica Jong typically enjoy candid explorations of female sexuality and personal freedom. Fans of The Bell Jar by Sylvia Plath or Sex and the Single Girl by Helen Gurley Brown will appreciate Jong's wit, introspection, and feminist themes. Ideal for those drawn to 1970s counterculture and autobiographical fiction.

3.7

23,776 ratings

51%

Loved it

32%

Mixed feelings

17%

Not a fan

Fun Facts

Fear of Flying by Erica Jong was published in 1973 and quickly became a controversial and groundbreaking work due to its candid exploration of female sexuality and liberation.

The novel introduced the term "zipless fuck" to describe a purely physical sexual encounter, a concept that entered popular culture and sparked discussions about sexual freedom and women's autonomy.

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Erica Jong's Fear of Flying has sold over 20 million copies worldwide since its publication, making it a significant influence in feminist literature and often referenced in discussions about gender and sexuality in the 1970s.

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Book Details

Pages

480

Format

Novel • Fiction

Genre

Romance

•

Classic Fiction

Setting

Europe • 1970s

Theme

Topic

•

•

Publication Year

1973

Audience

Adult