Fear of Flying
Posted by Desert Diva on Tuesday, July 22nd, 2008
In the seventies, a relatively new writer wrote a novel about a fictional character (Isadora Wing) who was on a journey of self-identity. On the surface, some may fault the novel as a woman’s sexcapades as she searches for the “zipless f*ck.” Yes, there is graphic content in the telling of the story, but it “fits” and relates to the tale.
However, the novel has a deeper level. It is a narrative about a woman and her emotional struggles and self doubts. The heroine ultimately discovers her own identity and passion.
Life has no plot. It is far more interesting than anything you can say about it because language, by its very nature, orders thing and life has no order. Even writers who respect the beautiful anarchy of life and try to get it all into their books, wind up making it seem much more ordered that it ever was and do not, finally, tell the truth. Because no writer can ever tell the truth about people – which is that they are much more interesting than any characters.
Fear of Flying is about a woman searching. She’s searching for love, what is means to be a “good” woman, and basically what it means to be a woman period.
I have a literal “fear of flying.” I haven’t flown since 9/11, but previously was certain every flight I took would end up in a flaming crash. I have other fears too, but those won’t be listed here…
I think we’re all searching for meaning in our lives – whether we admit it or not. As humans, we all want to be loved and validated in some manner. It might be time for me to re-read Fear of Flying…
Update: I did receive a call this morning from Harborview Medical Center orthopedic department. I have an appointment in Seattle on July 28th at 1:00 p.m. with Dr. Nicholas Vedder (an orthopedic hand surgeon) and his “team.” Dr. Vedder is listed as one of the orthopedic hand surgeons with the original doctor I attempted to see as Harborview is part of the University of Washington Medical Center. So, I thank you all for your prayers and thoughts – apparently they worked. 
Now is that part where I have to be patient and wait, and not worry about the “details.”
Filed in Journal | 5 responses so far
I did read that book, and, yes, the part I remember the most was the zipless F…
Good news about the appointment, and welcome back.
There is power in prayer! I am soooooooo glad u got the needed appt! I, too, have a horrible fear of flying. Recently went to Vegas and was racked with anxiety.
I am so happy! Getting the appointment is a wonderful step forward for you. I continue to keep you in my thoughts and prayers.
There’s an email from me coming your way.
Yeah for the appointment….I hope all continues to go well!
Most excellent! I’m so glad they squeezed you into his schedule.