Alain de Botton argues that the difficulties of sexual life are an inherent result of the friction between our biological drives and the requirements of civilization. He examines the tension between the sanctuary of a stable home and the inherently transgressive nature of desire. The text addresses specific tensions such as the loss of libido in long-term partnerships, the psychological roots of fetishes, and the persistent gap between our private fantasies and societal norms. By reframing lust as a search for emotional qualities rather than just physical pleasure, he explains why sex remains a constant source of confusion and shame.
This book is for individuals who feel isolated by their own desires or frustrated by the cooling of passion in committed relationships. Readers look to this work to replace feelings of deviance or inadequacy with a philosophical perspective on why human intimacy is naturally complicated. Instead of providing technical advice, the book offers a framework for accepting sexual frustration as a normal part of the human condition. People walk away with a more realistic vocabulary for discussing intimacy with their partners.
- Published
- 2012
- Language
- EN
