Miranda July’s 'All Fours': A Groundbreaking Exploration of Change and Identity

Last year, I eagerly finished Miranda July’s novel "All Fours," a story that captivated me deeply. Shortly after, a profile highlighted the book as the first major novel to address perimenopause with such nuance and insight. The narrative follows a woman in her 40s embarking on a road trip from California to New York but unexpectedly halting just miles from home. She rents a motel room and spends three weeks there, during which she profoundly reevaluates the ingrained beliefs she holds about her roles as a wife, mother, woman, and artist. I devoured the book as I do most of July’s work — with enthusiasm and admiration for her unique ability to articulate complex, often ineffable experiences.

Though the novel resonated with me personally, it wasn’t until reading about its growing impact that I realized how significant it had become for many readers. The book rapidly gained popularity, particularly among women over 40, becoming a frequent topic of conversation across social circles. It was even recognized as one of the year’s top ten books by a prominent literary review.

The dialogue around "All Fours" continues to expand. Miranda July has since launched a Substack newsletter, and a mini-series adaptation is in development. Anticipation is high for the book’s upcoming paperback release. In a recent podcast appearance, July reflected on the novel’s success, emphasizing her intentional effort to reshape perceptions of older women’s lives, sexuality, and inner worlds.

One aspect of July’s interview particularly caught my attention: she described how, while writing "All Fours," she and a friend regularly met to share meals and discuss the concept of perpetual personal change. This idea sparked my own thoughts about the value of themed conversations with friends, beyond typical catch-ups — a way to deepen understanding and connection.

July and her friend Isabel centered their gatherings around the biological shifts they were experiencing during perimenopause, recognizing how their moods and selves fluctuated throughout the month, often masked by an appearance of consistency. Even if this specific context doesn’t apply to everyone, the idea of focusing conversations on personal transformation—whether changes in perspective, habits, or preferences—offers a compelling invitation. Imagine meeting a friend for coffee with the intention to explore how you’ve evolved. Such a dialogue could reveal unexpected insights.

This ethos — seeing life as a canvas for creativity and possibility — is central to July’s work. Throughout her career, she has challenged conventions: from a 1990s chain letter of films by women, to a 2014 app that enlisted strangers to deliver messages in person. Recently, I rediscovered one of her cherished audio fiction pieces, "School of Romance," originally produced for a renowned radio show. Like "All Fours" and her other creations, it is poignant, delightful, and inspiring, encouraging a more imaginative approach to living. Above all, July’s art invites us to question ingrained assumptions and embrace transformation.