I have read The Witches of Eastwick and I've watched the film adaptation starring Cher, Susan Sarandon, and MIchelle Pfeiffer; and after all that, I still can't decide if it's all about misogyny or misandry. Either way, ambiguities and challenges of sexuality and gender are on full display, and Cher wears overalls almost the whole time.
The perfect date night with The Witches of Eastwick involves the audio book version, which will free up your hands for a fun craft, like making creepy voodoo dolls of local, quirky townsfolk you hate. Although Bookhive's "Date Night" itineraries are meant for one, you may want to gather a coven of friends for this one, because everyone knows that whenever women gather in groups of more than two, dark magic starts brewing (also menstruation syncs up).
Your Witches of Eastwick Date Night meal should a hearty Rhode Island clam bisque and an elaborate mulled wine that you can "brew" in the slow cooker. Cackle as you throw spices into your pot. Whatever desert you chose should include apples, because witches are constantly accessorizing with apples (see also: Once Upon a Time on ABC).
Apparently the book was a huge departure for John Updike, which I can't speak to because I've only read one other book by him (Brazil) and it was equally wacky and misogynist/misandrist (?) and also almost certainly very racist. When I read The Witches of Eastwick, I was simultaneously drawn to it and completely repulsed by it, and I had a similar experience with the film. Both are very strange and very worth your time.
Date Night is a recurring post of my recommendations for a curated evening at home with a good book. Solitude is assumed and preferred.
