Mary Gaitskill on Damage and Defiance

The New Yorker

by Deborah Treisman

February 22, 2026

AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary

Mary Gaitskill’s story *“Something Familiar,”* featured in *The New Yorker,* explores themes of identity, resilience, and societal influence through the narrative of a woman reflecting on her past while navigating an unexpected encounter with a cab driver during her return to New York City after decades away. The story delves into the protagonist’s unconventional choices, particularly her decision to turn to prostitution as a means of survival in her younger years, driven by economic necessity rather than defiance. Gaitskill intricately portrays the character’s perspective, highlighting how she viewed this act not as an assertion of strength but as a pragmatic response to poverty and societal constraints. The story captures the protagonist’s complex emotions and memories, revealing her ability to find beauty and absurdity in situations that others might judge harshly. Gaitskill draws on personal experiences and cultural influences, such as her recollection of *Taxi Driver* and the broader societal attitudes toward sex work during the 1980s. The character’s reflections on her past choices are layered with self-awareness and bewilderment, reflecting the nuanced ways individuals navigate moral ambiguity and economic survival. Gaitskill’s exploration of these themes resonates deeply with readers interested in cultural shifts around gender roles, sexuality, and economic inequality. By examining the protagonist’s journey and her ability to find meaning in difficult circumstances, Gaitskill offers a poignant commentary on

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Originally published on The New Yorker on 2/22/2026