Books matching: identity and desires
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- #1
'Men In Love' by Nancy Friday is a collection of men's sexual fantasies and desires, exploring the sociological aspects of men's thoughts on women and their latent feelings. The book delves into the impact of early experiences on men's sexuality, offering insights into the complexity of male fantasies and how they relate to childhood influences. Despite some disturbing and explicit content, the book presents a non-judgmental perspective on people's fantasies and aims to provide understanding of male sexuality through a series of case histories and fantasies.
A contemporary confusion is that if the sexes are equal, it must mean they are identical; men often predicted I’d find their fantasies similar to women’s. We may seek the same goal in fantasy sexual e... - #2
'The Cossacks' by Leo Tolstoy is a collection of three stories set in the Caucasus and Crimea during Tolstoy's time fighting in the region. The book explores themes of love, war, patriotism, and the clash of cultures, particularly focusing on the Cossack society. The stories delve into the complexities of human nature, the brutality of war, and the search for true happiness amidst conflicting desires. Tolstoy's writing style is characterized by vivid descriptions, deep philosophical reflections, and a raw portrayal of emotions and relationships.
All is quiet in Moscow. The squeak of wheels is seldom heard in the snow-covered street. There are no lights left in the windows and the street lamps have been extinguished. Only the sound of bells, ... - #3
'Breasts and Eggs' by Mieko Kawakami is a novel that follows the story of Natsuko and her relationships with her sister Makiko and niece Midoriko. The book delves into themes of womanhood, gender, class, motherhood, and societal expectations in Japan. The plot is divided into two parts, with the first part focusing on Makiko's visit to Tokyo for breast enhancement surgery and the second part exploring Natsuko's contemplation of motherhood and her struggles as a writer. The writing style is described as straightforward, clear, and insightful, providing a moving and original perspective on women's bodies and their roles in Japanese society.
If you want to know how poor somebody was growing up, ask them how many windows they had. Don’t ask what was in their fridge or in their closet. The number of windows says it all. It says everything. ... - #4
"Desert of the Heart" by Jane Rule is a classic lesbian romance novel set in Reno, Nevada, where Evelyn Hall seeks a divorce and meets Ann, leading to a reevaluation of her life. The book delves deep into the characters' thoughts and fears, providing a rounded view of their relationship and exploring themes of identity, love, and marriage. The writing style is described as subtle, philosophical, and beautiful, with characters that readers rooted for and engaged with.
CONVENTIONS, LIKE CLICHÉS, HAVE a way of surviving their own usefulness. They are then excused or defended as the idioms of living. For everyone, foreign by birth or by nature, convention is a mark of... - #5
'Fear of Flying' by Erica Jong follows the protagonist Isadora Wing as she navigates through her amorous adventures, emotional struggles, and quest for self-discovery. Set in the 1970s, the book challenges established ideas of femininity and female libido, delving into themes of feminism, independence, and sexuality. Through candid and irreverent storytelling, Jong explores Isadora's journey towards understanding her desires, relationships, and personal power, using her experiences as a metaphor for deeper meanings of freedom and feminism.
There were 117 psychoanalysts on the Pan Am flight to Vienna and I’d been treated by at least six of them. And married a seventh. God knows it was a tribute either to the shrinks’ ineptitude or my own... - #6
'Vinegar Hill' by Manette Ansay tells the story of Ellen, a Catholic wife and mother who is forced to move in with her dysfunctional and abusive in-laws after her husband loses his job. Set in the 1970s, the novel explores themes of unhappiness, abuse, and religion, as Ellen grapples with her faith, her failing marriage, and the oppressive environment she finds herself in. The story is narrated from multiple perspectives, highlighting the struggles and dysfunctionality of each character, ultimately leading to Ellen's journey towards self-discovery and liberation.
Ansay's writing style in 'Vinegar Hill' is described as dark, depressing, and bleak, yet compelling and well-crafted. The author skillfully portrays the emotional turmoil and despair of the characters, drawing readers into the somber and oppressive atmosphere of the narrative. delves into complex family dynamics, moral dilemmas, and the impact of tradition and abuse on individuals, offering a poignant and thought-provoking exploration of human relationships and resilience.
In the gray light of the kitchen, Ellen sets the table for supper, keeping the chipped plate back for herself before lowering the rest in turn. The plates are pink with yellow flowers twisting around ... - #7
The Dive from Clausen's Pier by Ann Packer is a novel that follows the story of Carrie Bell, who is faced with a difficult decision after her fiancé becomes paralyzed in a diving accident. The book explores themes of love, loyalty, self-discovery, and moral dilemmas as Carrie navigates her feelings and responsibilities towards her fiancé, her family, and herself. The writing style is described as spot-on, realistic, and emotionally evocative, delving into the complexities of human behavior and relationships.
- #8
While I Was Gone by Sue Miller is a novel that follows the life of Jo Becker, a successful veterinarian with a good marriage and lovely children. However, her past comes back to haunt her when someone from her previous life threatens to resurrect ghosts she had tried to escape. The story weaves between the present and the past, exploring Jo's time in a communal house during the late 60s, where a tragic murder occurred, and how it impacts her present life. Miller skillfully delves into themes of truth, lies, acceptance, and the impact of past events on one's present self, all while painting a vivid picture of New England and the characters' relationships.
It’s odd, I suppose, that when I think back over all that happened in that terrible time, one of my sharpest memories should be of some few moments the day before everything began. Seemingly unconnect... - #9
'The Mill on the Floss' by George Eliot is a novel that follows the life of Maggie Tulliver, a free-spirited and passionate young woman torn between societal expectations and her desire for self-fulfillment. The story delves into the struggles of a middle-class family in Victorian England, particularly focusing on the complex relationship between Maggie and her brother Tom. As Maggie navigates through life, facing societal pressures and personal conflicts, the novel explores themes of family dynamics, gender roles, and moral responsibility. The narrative is filled with quirky and believable characters, providing a poignant portrayal of provincial life in the 19th century.
The book is known for its detailed character development, particularly in the portrayal of Maggie Tulliver as a beloved yet flawed heroine. The plot unfolds with Maggie's emotional journey, influenced by her relationships with others and the societal constraints she must confront. George Eliot's writing style combines humor and darkness, drawing parallels to the works of Charles Dickens but with a unique perspective on femininity, individuality, and the complexities of family dynamics.
A wide plain, where the broadening Floss hurries on between its green banks to the sea, and the loving tide, rushing to meet it, checks its passage with an impetuous embrace. On this mighty tide the b... - #10
'Mister Sandman' by Barbara Gowdy is a novel that delves into the lives of the Canary family, a highly dysfunctional yet strangely devoted family. The story follows the family members as they navigate through their secrets, deceptions, and unconventional behaviors, all while maintaining a strong sense of love and protection towards each other. The youngest member, Joan, who is mute but musically gifted, serves as the keeper of the family's secrets and ultimately becomes the catalyst for honesty and self-discovery among the family members. Set in the 1950s and 60s, the novel explores themes of identity, sexuality, and the complexities of family relationships. The writing style is described as imaginative, complex, and at times darkly humorous, with a touch of fantasy and strong characterizations that make the story engaging and thought-provoking.
Joan Canary was the Reincarnation Baby. Big news at the time, at least in the Vancouver papers. This is going back, 1956. Joan was that newborn who supposedly screamed, “Oh, no, not again!” at a pitch...