As a child, I had a great sense of humor and many close female friends. One of my friends commented that I consistently had the most fashionable footwear. Meanwhile, she had to wear orthopedic shoes due to her weak ankles. I, on the other hand, sported red patent leather Mary Janes. My mother was quite fashionable herself, and I believe I inherited that same sense of style.

I had a rebellious streak, but I was never caught. I didn’t engage in anything particularly mischievous – I just enjoyed bringing joy to others. There was one instance when I joined a band on stage at 17 and sang, thinking I was quite talented. However, others did not share the same sentiment.

I ran away from college and arrived in New York at 19, and I felt a lot of pressure to make it. I got paid $50 for my first published piece and modelled in punk fashion shows for the free clothes. I used to say to people, “I’m a writer. Do you need a writer?” I was determined. Aged 20 I got paid $1,000 to write a children’s book and thought I was rich.

I observed individuals partaking in drug use and women performing without tops at Studio 54, but I did not join Mick Jagger in the basement. This could be due to my upbringing in a respectable family in Connecticut. I primarily observed rather than participated.

The show Sex and the City did not have a profound impact on my life, but rather served as a gradual progression. By the time I was two years into the show and working in the writers’ room, I had already written my second book, Four Blondes. It wasn’t until I received a million-dollar contract that my life truly changed. My success was not solely attributed to television, but rather to my writing career.

Prior to the show’s deviation, Carrie Bradshaw and Candace Bushnell had a strong relationship. The character served as my personal reflection. Many events in the show mirrored my own experiences, some of which were improvements and others were setbacks.

The TV show Sex and the City resonated with audiences because it portrays women in positions of power. In the 1980s, there was a movement for women to achieve success in all aspects of their lives. However, by the 1990s, many of these successful women were still single and searching for a partner. It became clear that when women were no longer reliant on men for financial support, their attitudes towards sex changed. They had more agency, more independence, and were open to having multiple partners.

I entered into marriage with ballet dancer Charles Askegard at a rapid pace. Our courtship lasted only three months before we tied the knot, and we remained married for a decade. The day we finalized our divorce was the last time I laid eyes on him until we unexpectedly crossed paths in the street three years ago. We chatted briefly and shared some laughter, but I have not had any further encounters with him since then.

11 years ago, my marriage ended in divorce. The editor in chief of the New York Observer expressed the impact of divorce in a relatable way: “You feel like you’re filled with shattered glass.” It is a painful and difficult experience.

In one week, I went on dates with a 21-year-old and a 91-year-old. I enjoy going out with individuals of various ages and do not engage in sexual activities with them. However, I do appreciate having dinner together. Younger men tend to ask many questions, while older men tend to focus on themselves.

In regards to sexual activity, there is no such thing as a cost-free meal. Another important point to note is that you cannot depend on a romantic partnership for your contentment or a place to live.

I am uncertain about what the future may bring. The determining factor will be my state of health. As individuals reach their 60s, their paths can vary greatly. Some may face cancer and that may be the end for them. However, I have friends whose mothers are still thriving in their 90s. It is impossible to predict.

The London Palladium will host the premiere of “Candace Bushnell: True Tales of Sex, Success and Sex and the City” on February 7. For more information, please visit candacebushnell.entertainers.co.uk.

Source: theguardian.com