I'm in Training to be Tall and Blonde

1979, possibly first edition, from St. Martin's Press
Nicole Hollander
I'm in Training to be Tall and Blonde
Original price $4.95, purchase price unknown
Paperback with worn out binding
B-

One thing about being middle-aged, Sylvia (the snarky, chain-smoking couch potato/barfly) no longer seems as cynical as she once did.  In fact, other than the references to Carter and other then-current leaders, as well as a few fashions and hairstyles, this collection is not as dated as it should be.  Even the title still sums up the dominant cultural ideal for women.  (Only it should include "thin" of course).  And yet, just reading these women saying the unsayable is encouraging.  What better sign of hope to end on than this final exchange?
PATIENT:  Doctor!  I want to have my cake and eat it, too!
THERAPIST:  Good.