In 'Conundrum,' Jan Morris embarks on a deeply personal exploration of identity and transformation that transcends mere memoir. Through her candid narrative, she reflects on her journey of gender transition, capturing the essence of self-discovery with poetic grace. With intricate prose, Morris delves into the complexities of existence, challenging societal norms and shedding light on the intricacies of the human experience. It's not just a tale of change, but a profound investigation of the self that invites readers to ponder their own perceptions of identity. Prepare to be captivated by a story that intertwines vulnerability with strength, urging you to consider the many layers of who we truly are.
By Jan Morris
Published: 2006
""In the end, we are all conundrums, mysteries to ourselves, shaping and reshaping our identities in the delicate dance of existence.""
One of the first-ever books on gender transition, this poignant memoir by a trans woman is “the best first-hand account ever written by a traveler across the boundaries of sex” (Newsweek). “A profoundly poetic story.” —The New York Times “An exquisite read.” —Maria Popova, The Marginalian The great travel writer Jan Morris was born James Morris. James Morris distinguished himself in the British military, became a successful and physically daring reporter, climbed mountains, crossed deserts, and established a reputation as a historian of the British empire. He was happily married, with several children. To all appearances, he was not only a man, but a man’s man. Except that appearances, as James Morris had known from early childhood, can be deeply misleading. James Morris had known all his conscious life that at heart he was a woman. Conundrum, one of the earliest books to discuss transsexuality with honesty and without prurience, tells the story of James Morris’ hidden life and how he decided to bring it into the open, as he resolved first on a hormone treatment and, second, on risky experimental surgery that would turn him into the woman that he truly was.
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“"In the end, we are all conundrums, mysteries to ourselves, shaping and reshaping our identities in the delicate dance of existence."”
Conundrum
By Jan Morris
Discover a world of knowledge through our extensive collection of book summaries.
Jan Morris (1926-2020) was a celebrated Welsh author and travel writer, renowned for her exquisite prose and vivid storytelling. Over her illustrious career, she penned several notable works, including the influential 'Venice,' a lyrical exploration of the historic city, and 'Conundrum,' an introspective look at her gender transition and the complexities of identity. Morris's writing style is characterized by its eloquence, rich detail, and a profound sense of place, making her a master of both travel narrative and memoir. In addition to her travel writing, she contributed essays, articles, and historical accounts, leaving an indelible mark on the literary world.
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