In Erica Jong's "Fear of Flying," the author explores the notion that women often become their own adversaries. This self-enmity is largely fueled by feelings of guilt, which serve as a formidable means of self-inflicted suffering. Jong suggests that guilt is a pervasive issue among women, shaping their thoughts and actions in a way that can lead to detrimental outcomes in their personal and social lives.

By contrasting the experiences of women with those of men, Jong implies that men typically escape the burdens of guilt to a greater extent. This perspective illuminates the societal pressures that contribute to women's self-sabotage and highlights the necessity for women to recognize and break free from these internal struggles. In doing so, they can reclaim their autonomy and strengthen their self-identity.