Who is the author of 'This is Pleasure'?

The author of 'This is Pleasure' is Mary Gaitskill.

What are the main themes in 'This is Pleasure'?

The main themes in 'This is Pleasure' include Romance, Contemporary Fiction, Literature, Fiction.

What genre is 'This is Pleasure'?

'This is Pleasure' is categorized as Fiction, Literature.

What is the main theme of 'This is Pleasure'?

The main theme of 'This is Pleasure' by Mary Gaitskill deals with the complexities of human relationships, particularly exploring the concepts of consent, power dynamics, and the nature of desire. It delves into the ethical and emotional implications of pleasure and intimacy, highlighting the nuances of male and female interactions in the context of contemporary issues surrounding sexual conduct and societal expectations.

Who are the primary characters in the book?

The primary characters in 'This is Pleasure' by Mary Gaitskill are two individuals named Vera and Nick. Vera is a prominent figure in the story, and Nick is her friend who has a significant role in the narrative, as they navigate their complex relationship and the themes of desire and power.

How does the author explore the concept of consent in the story?

In 'This is Pleasure' by Mary Gaitskill, the author explores the concept of consent through the complex interplay of desire, power, and the nuances of interpersonal relationships. Gaitskill delves into the psychological dimensions of consent, emphasizing that it is not merely a binary 'yes' or 'no' but involves a deeper understanding of emotions, intentions, and consequences. Characters navigate their desires while grappling with societal expectations and personal boundaries, illustrating how consent can be influenced by various factors, including vulnerability and context. The narrative prompts readers to reflect on the gray areas of consent, highlighting that true understanding and respect for personal agency are essential in any relationship.

What significant events shape the narrative in 'This is Pleasure'?

In 'This is Pleasure' by Mary Gaitskill, significant events that shape the narrative include the exploration of personal and societal attitudes towards sexuality and consent, the meeting and interaction between the main characters, particularly the perspectives of both the male protagonist, a charismatic and controversial figure, and the female protagonist, who navigates her complex feelings towards him. These interactions reveal deeper themes of power dynamics, intimacy, and the impact of past events on current relationships. Additionally, the narrative delves into themes of pleasure, pain, and the complexities of human desires, which are further developed through flashbacks and reflections on their pasts. The story is set against contemporary societal issues, adding layers to the characters' experiences.

What is the overall message that Mary Gaitskill conveys through this book?

The overall message that Mary Gaitskill conveys in 'This is Pleasure' revolves around the complexities of human relationships, desire, and the blurred lines between pleasure and pain. Gaitskill explores themes of intimacy, consent, and the impact of societal norms on personal connections, ultimately emphasizing the need for genuine communication and understanding in human interactions. The book invites readers to reflect on the nuances of pleasure, power dynamics, and the challenges of navigating modern relationships.

This is Pleasure

In 'This is Pleasure', Mary Gaitskill delves into the intricate lives of two characters amidst the turmoil of modern relationships. The story reveals the complexities of desire, gender dynamics, and the societal nuances that shape personal narratives. Through a tapestry of vivid prose, Gaitskill explores the fine line between pleasure and pain, intimacy and distance. As the characters confront their pasts, the reader is drawn into a poignant reflection on what it means to truly connect with another. This thought-provoking tale invites readers to question their own definitions of pleasure and the costs associated with it.

By Mary Gaitskill

Published: 2019

"Pleasure and pain exist in a delicate dance, each defining the other in the complexities of human connection."

Fiction Literature Contemporary Fiction Romance

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What Readers Say About This Book

"This book originally appeared, in slightly different form, in The New Yorker (newyorker.com) on July 8, 2019"--Copyright page.

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Key Points from This is Pleasure

In "This is Pleasure," the plot intricately weaves the lives of the two main characters, engaging the reader in a dual exploration of their past and present experiences. For instance, the character of Michael recalls a memorable summer spent with his mother, which shapes his perspective on intimacy and connection, illustrating how his personal history casts a long shadow over his current relationships. Similarly, the character of Erin grapples with her own painful memories, particularly her tumultuous experiences with love that inform her interactions with Michael. This oscillation between pleasure and pain serves as a core theme, revealing how both characters seek fulfillment while also being haunted by unresolved issues from their past. This dynamic is significant as it showcases the challenges of modern relationships, emphasizing the complexities of human connection where joy and sorrow often coexist. The back-and-forth structure of the narrative mirrors the unpredictability of modern life, ultimately illustrating how deeply rooted histories can complicate and enrich present interactions. Through Michael and Erin's intertwined journeys, the novel deftly critiques the idealization of relationships, suggesting that true understanding requires embracing both pleasure and pain.

About the Author

Mary Gaitskill

Mary Gaitskill is an acclaimed American author known for her insightful explorations of human relationships, desire, and the complexities of intimacy. Born in 1963, Gaitskill rose to prominence with her debut collection of short stories, 'Bad Behavior' (1988), which showcased her sharp wit and unflinching examinations of emotional and sexual dynamics. Her notable works include the novels 'Two Girls, Fat and Thin' (1991), 'Veronica' (2005), and 'The Mare' (2015), all of which reflect her unique style characterized by a blend of psychological depth and lyrical prose. Gaitskill's writing often traverses themes of vulnerability, trauma, and the nuances of personal connection, earning her a distinct place in contemporary literature.

Book Details

Key information about the book.

Authors: Mary Gaitskill
Published: January 2019
Publisher: Pantheon
ISBN: 1524749133
Language: English
Pages: 97
Genres: RomanceContemporary FictionLiteratureFiction

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“Pleasure and pain exist in a delicate dance, each defining the other in the complexities of human connection.”

This is Pleasure

By Mary Gaitskill

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Key Points from This is Pleasure

In "This is Pleasure," the plot intricately weaves the lives of the two main characters, engaging the reader in a dual exploration of their past and present experiences. For instance, the character of Michael recalls a memorable summer spent with his mother, which shapes his perspective on intimacy and connection, illustrating how his personal history casts a long shadow over his current relationships. Similarly, the character of Erin grapples with her own painful memories, particularly her tumultuous experiences with love that inform her interactions with Michael. This oscillation between pleasure and pain serves as a core theme, revealing how both characters seek fulfillment while also being haunted by unresolved issues from their past. This dynamic is significant as it showcases the challenges of modern relationships, emphasizing the complexities of human connection where joy and sorrow often coexist. The back-and-forth structure of the narrative mirrors the unpredictability of modern life, ultimately illustrating how deeply rooted histories can complicate and enrich present interactions. Through Michael and Erin's intertwined journeys, the novel deftly critiques the idealization of relationships, suggesting that true understanding requires embracing both pleasure and pain.

This is Pleasure

Start Listening

What Readers Say About This Book

The Mike & Casey Show

Key Points from This is Pleasure

About the Author

Mary Gaitskill

Book Details

Purchase Options

Similar books you might like →

The Time Traveler's Wife

Madame Bovary

Can Love Last?: The Fate of Romance Over Time

Jane Eyre

Breaking The Habit of Being Yourself

The Marriage Plot

Love Poems

What the Living Do: Poems

Take your reading experience to the next level

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Jacinda Ardern's Book Recommendations

Audrey Gelman's Book Recommendations

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