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Hello Creatives,
Ever wondered what happens when a spy turns poet? Drift off to sleep with the captivating works of Afra Behn, the 17th-century feminist writer who lived a life as fascinating as her poetry.
Known by the codename Estrella during her espionage career for the English government, Behn later turned to writing to escape debtor's prison and became one of the Restoration era's earliest female professional writers.
The sensual verses shared in this episode showcase Behn's revolutionary approach to female-oriented love poetry.
Through "The Disappointment," "Angelica's Lament," and "The Willing Mistress," we experience her bold exploration of desire, sexuality, and gender dynamics—themes that were considered scandalously inappropriate for women to discuss during her lifetime.
Behn's complaint that her works faced criticism simply because they came from a woman's pen resonates powerfully even today, reminding us how far we've come and how far we still have to go.
What makes Behn truly remarkable is her ability to carve out a professional literary career in a world where women were expected to rely solely on their husbands for financial support.
Her determination to make a living through her craft until the day she died exemplifies the fighting spirit we celebrate during International Women's Day.
As you listen to her evocative verses, you're connecting with a pioneering voice who dared to write her truth when society demanded her silence.
Follow us on social media or visit our website to discover more boundary-breaking voices that can accompany you into dreamland.
Sleep Tight,
Florence x
The Music in this episode is Am I Dreaming by Moments
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Do you want to feature as one of our Guest Readers in your own special episode? If you work or study in the Performing Arts or Creative Industry in any capacity, we would love to have you.
Applications open on 1st September every year, follow us on Instagram to keep up with the announcements!
Sleepless Creatives is hosted by Florence St Leger, and produced by Canary Studios.
The opening theme is Reflection by Birds of Norway.
