For a book centred on feminism, the word ‘machismo’ appears early and often. This is the Latin American concept of masculine pride. In the seemingly implacable patriarchy of that region, females have been consistently measured against that condescending benchmark. Allende has fought that simplification of feminine worth since she was able. In her early adult years, second-wave feminism was surging internationally. She questioned the search for ‘equality’, reasoning that the system itself was broken, so being equal to males had neither appeal nor value. She argues against the Eurocentric view of the feminine ideal: ‘young, white, tall, thin and fit’, embracing her age, ethnicity and sexuality. ‘This is the era of emboldened grandmothers.’

Allende expresses views on feminism and machismo, intergenerational issues, sexual desire, and ageing. Despite her feminist passion, Allende seems unable to speak of one sex without the other, and her views can appear simplistic and antiquated. While talking about the disturbingly prevalent and topical issue of male violence, her arguments are lessened by jarring, reductive generalisations.

There is a sense of contradiction. She was reactive against her own mother’s submissive passivity, but counted stepfather Ramón as her best friend, despite his overt machismo. Although this isn’t quite a biography, there are concerns with how deep Allende might have trawled her own experiences for this series of casual essays.

Perhaps this is why I still have no real idea what she thinks her soul might be.

Reviewed by Bob Moore