I stumbled upon My Less Than Secret Life at a thrift bookstore in DC and paid 8 bucks for it. The cover art caught my eye but the description of the book on the back cover made me decide in about 5 minutes that this would be a book I would re read for a very long time. It offers a unique perspective on what it means to be human and is witty as it is honest. The book offers a window into the author's life as he navigates his way through various relationships, sexual encounters, and personal struggles. He is not afraid to share his most embarrassing moments and flaws, making the reader feel as though they are getting an unfiltered glimpse into his world. Each chapter reads like a vignette, a snapshot of a moment in time that is vividly rendered through Ames' words. He employs metaphors and imagery that are both visceral and poetic.
Throughout the book, Ames explores themes of love, loss, and identity. He is overcome with his own desires and the social norms that dictate how he should behave. He shares stories of his encounters with various individuals, from porn stars to elderly neighbors, and how they have impacted his life. I think this book relates to everyones internal dialogue in most ways. It resonates for me in the chapters in which he describes his intense loneliness and longing to make connections. I think it’s a must read because even though his pieces aren’t necessarily positive the narrative about fearing that you maybe won’t figure it out is a lot of our everyday reality and struggle. Ames really taps into the human experience in a refreshing and relatable way.
The reason I write is to relate to others and show the not so pretty parts of myself and my life. Sharing the shit to hopefully make your shit not feel so shitty. I try my best to write raw, unfiltered and honest. I also try my best to find books and pieces of literature that do the same.