Erica Jong

#### Full Name and Common Aliases
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Erica Manjoo Jong is an American author, feminist activist, and former editor.

#### Birth and Death Dates
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Born: March 26, 1942
No death date provided (still living)

#### Nationality and Profession(s)
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American Author, Feminist Activist, Former Editor

#### Early Life and Background
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Erica Jong was born in New York City to a family of Jewish immigrants from Poland. Her father, Ida Mann, was an actress and her mother, Joseph Manjoo, was a doctor. Jong's early life was marked by a love for reading and writing, which she credited to her mother's encouragement.

Jong attended Barnard College, where she began writing poetry and fiction. After college, she moved to Europe and worked as a freelance writer, contributing articles to various publications. Her experiences as a woman in a patriarchal society fueled her feminist activism and writing.

#### Major Accomplishments
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Erica Jong's most notable accomplishment is her novel Fear of Flying, published in 1973. This bestselling book tells the story of Isadora Wing, a woman who embarks on an affair while married, sparking controversy with its frank portrayal of female desire and promiscuity.

Jong has written numerous other books, including novels like How to Save Your Own Life (1969) and Fanny, a novel in progress. She has also published essay collections, poetry, and children's literature.

#### Notable Works or Actions
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In addition to her writing, Jong has been an outspoken feminist activist. She was involved in the 1970s women's liberation movement, advocating for reproductive rights, equal pay, and an end to sexism in media and culture.

Jong has also been a vocal advocate for women's rights to choose their own reproductive health. Her experiences as a woman navigating patriarchal societal norms and expectations have informed her writing and activism.

#### Impact and Legacy
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Erica Jong's work has had a significant impact on feminist literature and the broader cultural conversation around women's bodies, desires, and lives. Fear of Flying, in particular, helped pave the way for future generations of female writers to explore themes of sex, love, and identity.

Jong's legacy extends beyond her writing, as she continues to advocate for women's rights and challenge patriarchal norms through public speaking and media appearances.

#### Why They Are Widely Quoted or Remembered
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Erica Jong is widely quoted and remembered due to her unapologetic portrayal of female desire and sexuality in Fear of Flying. Her work helped normalize conversations around women's bodies, relationships, and identity, paving the way for future generations of feminist writers.

Her dedication to feminist activism has made a lasting impact on the cultural conversation around women's rights and reproductive health. Jong's legacy serves as a testament to the power of writing and activism in challenging societal norms and promoting social change.