Madeline Dyer, this was terrific. The article and thinking reminds me a lot of “A Telephone Call” by Dorothy Parker, which I think you would very much enjoy as a critique on the uncertainty and anxiety that accompanied Jazz Age flapper-type women. This piece was so genuine and gave voice to a time where I was deeply insecure and focused on whether I was hyperventilating and breathing so loud that everyone could hear me (I know it sounds stupid) and had this dread of taking an exam in silence because I would be breathing too loud.

Thank you for this.