Barbara Foster, 78, is, wait for it, an Associate Professor at City University of New York and a belly dancer. That’s the sort of eclecticism that we love here. She lets us know what being an ‘original’ consists of.
What is your name?
Prof Barbara Foster
How old are you?
78
Where do you live?
The Village NY, NY
What do you do?
Writer–Assoc. Professor City University of New York
belly dancer
Tell us what it’s like to be your age?
Intimidating because people’s perceptions are so fixed. They want to write off an older woman, which I rebel against. I am an “original” as they said in the eighteenth century. I consider each day an adventure.
What do you have now that you didn’t have at 25?
A bit of wisdom gained in the field. I have taken many chances and learned much from the risks I have taken.
What about sex?
I still like it very much but at this point it is difficult to find the right partner. I have tried younger men with mixed results, older are a bit doddering–ready for the nursing home.
And relationships?
I would like one, and have the skill to conduct one, but the right partner is a hunt that makes it difficult when you have much else to do.
How free do you feel?
Free and not so free. I have a creative career which takes up much time. It is a blessing but it has demands that I cannot deny. Time is gone before i know it.
What are you proud of?
My writing and unique personality.
What keeps you inspired?
The game of life. It is so challenging, so surprising.
When are you happiest?
Writing, it’s a gift.
And where does your creativity go?
Into fiction non-fiction and poetry, dancing.
What’s your philosophy of living?
Accept change as the Buddhists say. Don’t expect your world to be fixed. Look for new challenges.
And dying?
Not looking forward to it.
Are you still dreaming?
Yes, I dream of visiting new faraway places.
What was a recent outrageous action of yours?
Nothing to recent, but some years ago i bathed in the polluted Ganges river with intoxicated natives all around and almost got kidnapped.
