Caroline Calloway: How Depression Gave Me a Silver Lining

Caroline Calloway: ‘I think depression really did me a solid’

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July 16, 2023

Caroline Calloway, author and influencer, has recently released her debut memoir, “Scammer,” to both acclaim and surprise. The memoir digs into the scandals and tumult that have plagued Calloway’s life in recent years, including her controversial workshops and accusations of being a scammer. With her self-published memoir, Calloway aims to reclaim the narrative and share her side of the story.

What makes “Scammer” so interesting is Calloway’s bold and direct approach. She offers a glimpse into her most vulnerable moments, sharing details about her anorgasmia, addiction issues, and mental health struggles. However, she never loses sight of how her words shape the reader’s perception of her. Calloway is well-aware of the impact of public perception, having experienced a torrent of hate online throughout her career.

One notable aspect of Calloway’s journey as an author is the gender bias she faces. She believes that if she were a man, the emphasis would be on her being a writer rather than wanting to be famous. She rejects the sexist stereotype imposed on her and emphasizes her belief in the quality of her writing and her desire to have as many readers as possible enjoy it.

While Calloway may be managing the conversation about her through “Scammer” and her social media presence, it doesn’t negate the difficulties she faces in sharing personal details of her life. She acknowledges that there may be consequences, such as potential fallout from her revelations or intensified online harassment. However, Calloway’s dry response highlights a deeper truth: her struggles with depression have given her a sense of purpose in creating compelling and chaotic books.

It’s worth considering the philosophical implications of Calloway’s journey. Her memoir raises questions about the nature of storytelling and autobiography. Can we ever truly know if an author is being radically honest or performing radical honesty? Does it even matter? As readers, we crave a glimpse behind the curtain of someone’s life, even if it’s just another part of the set dressed up to look like backstage.

Perhaps what makes a good memoirist is their ability to make us feel trusted with their most vulnerable moments while still acknowledging the role they play in shaping our perceptions of them. Calloway’s “Scammer” accomplishes this by blending controversy, admissions, and a raw directness that forces readers to confront their own biases and preconceived notions about her.

Ultimately, Calloway’s memoir serves as a commentary on the power and perils of online fame. She reflects on the impact of public perception and the entitlement some feel to comment on personal matters, even a decade later. Calloway’s experiences with online hate have led her to question the value of online privacy and the need for a more empathetic and compassionate online community.

As Calloway continues her journey as an author and influencer, it will be interesting to see how she navigates the complexities of fame and personal growth. Regardless of one’s opinion of her, it’s clear that she has managed to carve out a space for herself within the literary world, using her experiences and writing to provoke thought and challenge societal norms.

About the author: is a current affairs commentator and has been covering cultural and literary topics for the New York Times. With a focus on philosophical discussions and societal trends, Felsenthal examines the impact of individuals’ stories on a broader scale.