Emily Wells' book 'A Matter of Appearances' serves as an autobiographical revelation about her journey through illness and its impacts on her life, specifically her expulsion from the world of ballet. The narrative intertwines themes of feminism with anti-capitalist critiques, highlighting how societal expectations often dictate perceptions of health and body image. Wells' work sheds light on the often overlooked struggles faced by those with chronic illnesses, particularly women, in a society that prizes physical perfection and productivity.

In her writing, Wells critiques established norms not only within the realms of ballet and performing arts but also within the literary world. She draws parallels between the commercial literature that follows set codes and her own literary contributions that challenge and expand these boundaries. By categorizing her work as 'genre literature' focused on illness, she places herself within a tradition that seeks to articulate the experiences of those who grapple with health-related adversities, emphasizing their validity and significance in contemporary discourse.

The implications of Wells' book extend beyond personal narrative; they resonate with broader societal issues regarding the stigmatization of body illness and the pressures exerted on individuals to conform to an ideal. Through her eloquent exploration of these concepts, Wells invites readers to reflect on how illness is perceived and represented in culture, potentially fostering a more inclusive and understanding dialogue around bodily experiences and the narratives we construct around them.