Fanny Hill

Content Warning: This section includes depictions of sexual assault, and offensive and outdated language regarding women, gay men, and sexual interests.

“Ungracious then as the task may be, I shall recall to view those scandalous stages of my life, out of which I emerg’d, at length, to the enjoyment of every blessing in the power of love, health, and fortune to bestow; whilst yet in the flower of youth, and not too late to employ the leisure afforded me by great ease and affluence, to cultivate an understanding, naturally not a despicable one, and which had, even amidst the whirl of loose pleasures I had been tost in, exerted more observation on the character and manners of the world than what is common to those of my unhappy profession, who looking on all thought or reflection as their capital enemy, keep it at as great a distance as they can, or destroy it without mercy.”

Fanny opens the first letter by framing the novel as a true story, mentioning that elements of her story are embarrassing or immoral and noting how most people involved in sex work might see introspection and reflection as a difficult or unpleasant task. Cleland includes this passage as part of the “adventure” or “history” conventions, in which the narrator claims that their story is true, exciting, and scandalous to intrigue the reader and frame the narrative as a candid look into the character’s life. Included in this passage, as well, is the indication that Fanny will meet with a happy end in her story, as she now has “leisure” and “affluence.”

“No sooner then was this precious substitute of my mistress’ laid down, but she, who was never out of her way when any occasion of lewdness presented itself, turned to me, embraced and kiss’d me with great eagerness. This was new, this was odd; but imputing it to nothing but pure kindness, which, for aught I knew, it might be the London way to express in that manner, I was determin’d not to be behind hand with her, and returned her the kiss and embrace, with all the fervour that perfect innocence knew.”

Fanny’s reaction to Phoebe’s advances mirrors what would be expected of such a young person encountering sexuality where they are not prepared for it. Her innocence, in the sexual sense, is revealed in her decision to return the caresses and kisses, thinking that Phoebe may just be following some London social code that Fanny is not aware of. This experience marks Fanny’s first sexual encounter in the novel, setting up an early dynamic in which Fanny follows the sexual leads of those around her.