What's Happening?
Animator and creator Lisa Hanawalt has released her new illustrated memoir, 'I Can’t Stop Thinking About Horses And Sex.' The book delves into her personal experiences, including a midlife crisis, the end of a 14-year relationship, and her renewed passion
for horses. Hanawalt, known for her work on 'BoJack Horseman' and 'Tuca & Bertie,' uses her signature style of candid, often absurd illustrations and inner monologues to explore themes of body image, sex, and emotional vulnerability. The memoir details her decision to buy a horse, Juniper, as a form of self-care amidst career burnout and health issues, and how this lifestyle shift provided a sense of presence and connection. She also discusses her attempt at ethical non-monogamy with her former partner, comedian Adam Conover, and her journey through dating and exploring fertility options like egg-freezing. The book also touches on a past sexual assault and her coping mechanisms, such as a hyper-fixation on Kevin Costner's filmography.
Why It's Important?
Hanawalt's memoir is significant for its raw honesty and exploration of complex personal themes, offering a relatable narrative for individuals navigating midlife challenges, relationship changes, and self-discovery. Her willingness to discuss topics often considered taboo, such as sexual assault, polyamory fails, and fertility struggles, contributes to a broader cultural conversation about vulnerability and mental health. The book also highlights the therapeutic benefits of connecting with animals and finding community, as Hanawalt describes the diverse group of people she meets at the stables. Her unique artistic style, which blends humor with deeply personal insights, continues to push boundaries in the memoir genre, demonstrating how visual storytelling can enhance emotional depth and accessibility. The memoir's release also comes at a time when the animation industry faces a downturn, making Hanawalt's continued creative output and exploration of new mediums particularly noteworthy.
What's Next?
Lisa Hanawalt is embarking on a six-date book tour to promote 'I Can’t Stop Thinking About Horses And Sex,' including an event in Los Angeles. She is also actively working on several new animation projects, though their future is uncertain given the current challenges in the animation industry. Beyond her literary and animation endeavors, Hanawalt is exploring other creative ventures, including selling hats and collaborating with a perfume maker to develop a 'horsey-themed' fragrance. Her ongoing connection and friendship with her former partner, Adam Conover, who is releasing his own stand-up special about their breakup, suggests a continued dialogue and mutual support in their creative and personal lives. The reception of her memoir will likely influence her future projects and further solidify her reputation as a distinctive voice in contemporary art and storytelling.
Beyond the Headlines
Hanawalt's memoir delves into the deeper implications of societal expectations around womanhood, relationships, and aging. Her candid discussion of egg-freezing and the decision to remain child-free challenges traditional narratives about female fulfillment. The book also subtly critiques the pressures faced by creatives, particularly in industries prone to burnout, and offers a personal account of finding solace and meaning outside of professional achievements. The 'horse girl' identity, often stereotyped, is reclaimed and reframed as a source of strength, community, and genuine connection, transcending socioeconomic and political divides. Furthermore, Hanawalt's use of humor and absurdity to address traumatic experiences, such as sexual assault, highlights the complex ways individuals process pain and find resilience, offering a nuanced perspective on healing and self-acceptance. The memoir ultimately reflects a broader cultural shift towards greater openness about mental health and personal struggles.
