UNTAMED

Glennon Doyle's "Untamed" Dismantles the Cages of Conformity

Untamed by Glennon Doyle was published in 2020 by The Dial Press, an imprint of Random House.

From the first page, Glennon Doyle’s Untamed proves itself to be a raw, candid, and deeply transformative piece of writing that challenges readers to reimagine their lives outside of societal expectations. Doyle blends personal anecdotes with philosophical reflections, offering a manifesto for self-discovery, empowerment, and the pursuit of authenticity. The book moves seamlessly between memoir and self-help, creating a powerful narrative that speaks to anyone yearning to break free from the constraints of societal norms, gender roles, or self-doubt as a woman in the world.

At its core, Untamed is about reclaiming one’s inner voice—the “knowing”—that often gets lost in the noise of external validation. Doyle’s narrative is as much a personal journey as it is a rallying cry for readers to live untamed, unapologetically true to themselves.

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Themes and Analysis

Freedom and Authenticity

The central theme of Untamed is the pursuit of true freedom—the kind that comes from living authentically. Doyle recounts her own awakening, from leaving her marriage to falling in love with soccer star Abby Wambach and building a new life on her own terms. She emphasizes that this kind of freedom requires dismantling the cages that society constructs for us: roles, expectations, and the relentless pursuit of perfection.

Doyle writes, “We are taught to be good instead of being ourselves,” a powerful statement that resonates throughout the book. Her narrative serves as both a personal testimony and a universal call to action: to listen to the inner voice that guides us toward a life that feels right, not just one that looks right.

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Feminism and Gender Roles

Doyle critiques the societal conditioning of women to suppress their desires, shrink themselves, and prioritize others over their own needs. She examines how these expectations begin in childhood, labeling them as the “taming” of girls into conformity. Through her own experiences and observations, Doyle unpacks how these gendered expectations perpetuate dissatisfaction and disconnection.

Her feminist perspective is bold and unapologetic. She encourages women to abandon the idea of being "good mothers," "good wives," or "good daughters" if it comes at the cost of their own happiness and authenticity. By embracing their full humanity, women can reclaim their power and inspire those around them to do the same.

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Self-Love and Inner Knowing

Doyle introduces the concept of the “Knowing,” the deep, intuitive voice within each of us that knows what is true and right. Throughout Untamed, she emphasizes the importance of turning inward and trusting this voice, even when it leads to uncomfortable or unconventional choices.

Her journey to self-love is a central narrative thread, as she navigates the guilt, fear, and uncertainty that come with prioritizing her own needs. Doyle’s reflections are both deeply personal and widely relatable, providing readers with tools to explore their own inner truth.

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The Power of Storytelling

Doyle’s gift for storytelling is a standout feature of Untamed. She weaves together short, vivid chapters filled with metaphor, humor, and piercing insight. Each chapter feels like a self-contained essay, but together they form a cohesive and compelling narrative. Her use of stories—both personal and allegorical—creates a bridge between her experiences and the universal truths she aims to share.

One of the most striking metaphors in the book is that of a caged cheetah, which Doyle uses to illustrate the false sense of security that comes from living a tamed life. Like the cheetah, many of us have forgotten our wild instincts, settling for lives that are “safe” but unfulfilling.

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Writing Style and Structure

Doyle’s writing is conversational, direct, and infused with emotion. She speaks with vulnerability and humor, making even the heaviest topics accessible. Her prose is lyrical at times, filled with short, impactful sentences that read like mantras: “Feel it all. Feel it all. Feel it all.” This rhythm keeps the reader engaged, as though they’re in a deep, personal conversation with the author.

The structure of the book—a series of interconnected essays—mirrors the fragmented yet transformative nature of Doyle’s journey. This non-linear format allows readers to dip into individual chapters or absorb the book as a whole, making it highly accessible.

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Critical Reception

Untamed has been celebrated as a groundbreaking work that blends memoir and self-help in a way that feels revolutionary. It has struck a chord with readers worldwide, becoming a #1 New York Times bestseller and earning praise for its honesty, relatability, and inspirational message. Critics have highlighted Doyle’s ability to challenge societal norms while remaining deeply empathetic and vulnerable.

However, some have noted that the book’s style—heavily anecdotal and reflective—may not appeal to those looking for a more traditional memoir or structured self-help guide. Others have critiqued its emphasis on individual empowerment, suggesting that it could do more to address systemic barriers.

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Impact and Legacy

Since its publication, Untamed has become a cultural touchstone, particularly among women seeking to reclaim their identities and live more authentic lives. Doyle’s message of empowerment and self-love has resonated across generations, sparking discussions about what it means to live untamed.

The book’s success lies in its ability to speak to a broad audience while remaining deeply personal. Doyle’s willingness to bare her soul on the page invites readers to do the same in their own lives.

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Untamed is more than a memoir—it’s a manifesto for living authentically and unapologetically, dancing between memoir and self-help. Glennon Doyle’s blend of vulnerability, humor, and insight creates a powerful narrative that encourages readers to break free from societal expectations and embrace their true selves.

Whether you’re at a crossroads in life or simply seeking inspiration, Untamed offers a roadmap for self-discovery and empowerment. Doyle’s message is clear: stop living for others’ approval and start trusting the wild, untamed voice within you.

Untamed is a must-read for anyone ready to challenge the status quo, rediscover their “Knowing,” and step into a life of purpose, passion, and freedom.