Meaning: Mary MacLane was an American writer who gained fame in the early 20th century for her bold and unconventional style. The quote "Well, if I am not vulgar, neither is my book. I wrote myself. Suggestiveness is always vulgar. But truth never. My book is not even remotely suggestive. I call things by their names. That is all." provides insight into MacLane's perspective on writing and the themes she explored in her work.

In this quote, MacLane is asserting her belief that her writing is not vulgar, despite the controversial and at times explicit nature of her content. She claims that her book is a true reflection of herself and that she does not rely on suggestiveness to convey her message. Instead, she emphasizes the importance of truth in her writing, stating that "suggestiveness is always vulgar. But truth never." According to MacLane, truth is not vulgar, and she strives to portray reality as it is without resorting to innuendo or insinuation.

MacLane's assertion that her book is not even remotely suggestive reflects her commitment to directness and honesty in her writing. She believes in calling things by their names and presenting them without embellishment or euphemism. This straightforward approach aligns with her rejection of suggestiveness and her insistence on portraying truth.

Mary MacLane's views on writing and the rejection of suggestiveness are reflective of the broader cultural and literary context in which she wrote. At the turn of the 20th century, there was a growing interest in exploring themes of personal experience, individuality, and the inner lives of women. MacLane's work, particularly her groundbreaking memoir "The Story of Mary MacLane," exemplifies this trend and pushes the boundaries of what was considered acceptable in literature at the time.

"The Story of Mary MacLane" was published in 1902 when MacLane was just 19 years old, and it quickly garnered attention for its raw, introspective, and often controversial content. The memoir is written in a confessional style, offering readers a candid and unfiltered glimpse into MacLane's thoughts, emotions, and experiences. She discusses her desires, fears, frustrations, and aspirations with a level of openness and honesty that was unprecedented for a young woman at that time.

MacLane's refusal to adhere to societal norms and her unapologetic embrace of her own voice and perspective made her a polarizing figure. While some hailed her as a bold and fearless writer, others criticized her for being too explicit and unconventional. However, MacLane remained steadfast in her commitment to authenticity and truth in her writing, as evidenced by her statement about the lack of suggestiveness in her work.

Despite the controversy surrounding her writing, Mary MacLane's contributions to literature are significant. She challenged traditional notions of femininity and propriety, paving the way for future generations of women writers to explore their inner worlds with greater freedom and honesty. Her insistence on calling things by their names and rejecting suggestiveness aligns with her larger mission to assert her own agency and voice in a world that often sought to silence or constrain women.

In conclusion, Mary MacLane's quote about the lack of vulgarity and suggestiveness in her writing offers a glimpse into her bold and uncompromising approach to literature. By emphasizing the importance of truth and directness, she positioned herself as a pioneering figure in the exploration of personal experience and individuality. Her work continues to be relevant today, serving as a testament to the power of authenticity and the enduring impact of writers who dare to challenge societal norms.