Julia Aue Photography presents harper muse Jessica Guerrieri and her latest book, ‘Between the Devil and the Deep Blue Sea’. In stories aimed at women, a glass of wine frequently plays a significant role — symbolizing relaxation, companionship, or a deserved treat. It has become so ingrained in these narratives that the absence of alcohol can seem unusual, even unrealistic. This became apparent to me five years ago when a reader critiqued my debut novel, questioning the believability of a women’s gathering without alcohol. This feedback struck a chord with me as I have been sober for 12 years, making such alcohol-free gatherings not only believable but my reality.
I wrote ‘Between the Devil and the Deep Blue Sea’ (available on May 13) to delve into the emotional impact of turning to substances to cope with the challenges of motherhood. Drawing from my own struggles with addiction and recovery, researching for the novel also shed light on how women’s fiction often simplifies the complexities of alcohol use, opting for glamorous portrayals that feel disconnected from reality.
What is particularly concerning is that these portrayals not only reflect but also influence reality. When we propagate the idea that women rely on alcohol to connect, relax, and navigate daily struggles, we perpetuate a harmful narrative. I, too, convinced myself for years that using substances to cope was harmless, a well-deserved respite from life’s pressures, and a common practice. However, it eventually spiraled out of control, and alcohol ceased to be a choice but a necessity.
A poignant photography series I encountered captured individuals at various stages of wine consumption, showcasing how their demeanor changed with each glass. While many perceived increased joy and giddiness in the later stages, I saw a different truth. The initial photos exuded shyness, reservation, and innocence that gradually faded with each glass, leaving behind a facade of happiness.
These images resonated with me as I recalled the emptiness I felt when relying on alcohol as a crutch. It became a mask to conceal my struggles until everything unraveled, forcing me to confront the reality I had been avoiding: I didn’t need another drink; I needed support.
I am not alone in this struggle. Data from the National Institute on Alcoholism and Alcohol Abuse shows that alcohol-related issues affect a significant portion of the population. It is essential to challenge the glorification of alcohol in storytelling and advocate for narratives that reflect the complexities and realities of substance use.
According to the National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism, the rate of alcohol-related deaths among women more than doubled between 1999 and 2020, increasing from 4.8 to 12 per 100,000 individuals. These rates saw a significant spike during the COVID-19 pandemic, with a 35% increase in alcohol-related deaths among women in one year, compared to a 27% increase in men. While men still have higher rates of alcohol misuse, the gender gap is narrowing rapidly.
During a recent author event, a speaker mentioned enjoying the “sloppy drunk antics” trope, where tipsy characters’ unfiltered honesty or embarrassing behavior adds humor or twists to the plot. While everyone has their own preferences, it’s worth noting how these scenes vary across different genres. In a romance novel, a blackout could lead to comedic relief or a happy ending. In a thriller, waking up disoriented could uncover a crime. Alcohol is often depicted as a social crutch in general fiction, smoothing over interactions or fueling reckless decisions. However, in book club fiction, these moments can take a darker turn, leading to rehab, divorce, or tragedy.
Alcohol is frequently portrayed as a key element in women’s fiction, playing a role in moments of humor, romance, or sorrow. But what if we shifted the focus and viewed it as the antagonist? What if we told stories of women battling their demons, emerging from darkness, and rebuilding their lives step by step?
As an author, my aim is to bring authenticity and depth to the topic of alcohol use in women through my writing. I delve into the reasons why women may turn to alcohol, exploring the complexities and consequences of dependence, while also highlighting the strength of women in recovery.
Alcohol can be a silent companion in women’s lives, influencing various aspects of their stories. By portraying alcohol honestly, literature has the power to initiate meaningful discussions and challenge harmful myths. Fiction has the potential to reflect the messy, intricate truth about women and alcohol, sparking real change.
My personal experience with alcohol use came to a head during our second year of marriage when my husband urged me to quit as we tried for a baby. Despite my deep desire to become a mother, I struggled to put down the bottle. The realization of my inability to stop drinking, and the subsequent feelings of humiliation and confusion, only drove me deeper into dependency. What was meant to be a wake-up call became another reason to numb my pain before finding my way out.
Sharing stories about alcohol use in women’s fiction is crucial in shedding light on this important issue.
The article shines a light on the deep-rooted connection between drinking and our culture, especially among mothers. When I stopped drinking, I faced various reactions ranging from misunderstanding to resistance: How do you socialize without alcohol? You weren’t that bad, were you? As I opened up about my journey, I discovered many women harboring silent concerns about their own drinking but feeling alone in their struggles. Writing my novel “Between the Devil and the Deep Blue Sea,” I aimed to shatter this silence. Fiction offers a unique avenue for exploring experiences that real life might not, allowing readers to relate to characters without judgment. For the main character, the pivotal moment isn’t just realizing her reliance on alcohol, but understanding the emotional burdens she carries — grief, fatigue, the immense pressures of motherhood. My hope is for my book to ignite discussions not only about drinking itself, but also about the underlying reasons why many women feel compelled to drink. This is why I write the stories I do and advocate for alcoholism to be addressed in women’s fiction. Not to preach, but to enlighten. To reveal that beyond the clinking wine glasses in celebration, there are hidden tears, fears, and moments of truth. By portraying authentic narratives of women’s lives, we cultivate space for empathy, comprehension, and, ultimately, transformation. “Between the Devil and the Deep Blue Sea” will be released on May 13 and is currently available for pre-order wherever books are sold. (Adapted from the original article on People)
