San Francisco Review of Books: Book Review: 'In Search of Pure Lust: A Memoir' by Lise Weil

Introduction

Thursday, August 2, 2018

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Author Background

Lise Weil, a Canadian author, is an influential figure in the literary and feminist world. She is known for her establishment of TRIVIA: A JOURNAL OF IDEAS, a radical feminist literary and political magazine, and her editorship of its online relaunch. Weil's writing has been widely acclaimed and has appeared in various journals. She is also a teacher at Goddard College's Graduate Institute in Montreal.

Book Review

'In Search of Pure Lust: A Memoir' by Lise Weil is an enthralling account of the sexual revolution of the 1970s and 1980s, particularly within the lesbian feminist movement. Weil's memoir not only provides a journalistic history of the era but also serves as a deeply poetic tribute to a time that allowed her personal growth and self-discovery. The author beautifully captures the essence of gender identification and the groundbreaking progress society has made in embracing diverse identities.

Weil's memoir explores her experience within the lesbian feminist culture and the intense eroticism that defined it. The central theme is desire and its complex relationship with love and personal growth. Weil candidly reflects on the failures of her relationships, which often mirrored the political turbulence of the time. She also delves into the impact of childhood wounds on her understanding of desire and the role it played in her life. However, when Weil attends a Zen retreat at the suggestion of a friend, her perspective begins to shift. Through self-examination and years of learning, she discovers an alternative approach to desire that transcends pure lust and begins to resemble love.

The book's synopsis aptly captures the essence of Weil's journey: a quest for pure lust that ultimately leads to the discovery of a transformative form of love. This memoir is a celebration of personal growth, resilience, and the power of embracing one's authentic self.

Conclusion

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'In Search of Pure Lust: A Memoir' by Lise Weil is a remarkable book that offers readers a unique glimpse into the cultural and political landscape of the 1970s and 1980s. Weil's memoir is not only an important historical account but also a poignant exploration of desire, love, and personal transformation. This book is a must-read for those seeking a deeper understanding of the LGBTQ+ experience and how it intersects with societal change and personal growth.

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