Transvestia

chance one has of establishing a stronger identity. The transvestite, therefore, attempts to establish a feminine identity; one so different, so separate from his threatened masculine identity, that he tends to transcend the feeling

of nothingness.

It has been observed that some transvestites take a slower and less direct approach in establishing this fem- inine identity; that they begin by wearing those feminine items of apparel invisible to the outside observer; that they are slower in ever completely establishing a femi- nine personality; and that indeed, some never feel a need to dress "all the way". Such an approach might indicate a slower rise of one's individuality-destroying memories.

Whereas a more rapid rise of these memories might bring about the more direct approach to transvestism; as noticed in those transvestites who begin with, say high- heels and the clearly visible items of feminine apparel; and more quickly adopt a public feminine identity.

Regardless of the approach to transvestism it still seems to me that transvestism represents an existantial attempt to cope with the subconscious knowledge of man's nothingness in the universe; a knowledge that we all seem to have in some degree. The extent to which we embrace transvestism would indicate the extent of our awareness of the purposelessness of the universe; where we feel that our individuality is so destarately threatened.

THE END

58

"Oh, don't pay any attention to him, Bill; he never joins in any of our beach games!"