"Duclos,” the Président interrupted at this point, “we have, I believe, advised you that your narrations must be decorated with the most numerous and searching details; the precise way and extent to which we may judge how the passion you describe relates to human manners and man’s character is determined by your willingness to disguise no circumstance; and, what is more, the least circumstance is apt to have an immense influence upon the procuring of that kind of sensory irritation we expect from your stories."
- Marquis de Sade, The 120 Days of Sodom, 1785. Just read an excerpt for my upcoming workshop with Rob Halpern, and man, it is some *crazy* stuff. I thought “Naked Lunch” was pushing the limit in some parts, and Sade makes “Naked Lunch” look like a children’s book. I thought this passage was interesting, though - certainly seems relevant as a writer and storyteller. Can’t wait to see what we do with it in class!
-
katie-ing posted this
