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Tamed as it may be, sexuality remains one of the demonic…

“Tamed as it may be, sexuality remains one of the demonic forces in human consciousness - pushing us at intervals close to taboo and dangerous desires, which range from the impulse to commit sudden arbitrary violence upon another person to the voluptuous yearning for the extinction of one's…” quote by Susan Sontag
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“Tamed as it may be, sexuality remains one of the demonic forces in human consciousness - pushing us at intervals close to taboo and dangerous desires, which range from the impulse to commit sudden arbitrary violence upon another person to the voluptuous yearning for the extinction of one's consciousness, for death itself. Even on the level of simple physical sensation and mood, making love surely resembles having an epileptic fit at least as much as, if not more than, it does eating a meal or conversing with someone.”

Susan Sontag

About This Quote

This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.

Human sexuality is portrayed as a powerful, almost demonic force that can drive both violent and self‑destructive impulses, as well as intense pleasure.

In simple terms: Sexuality is a wild, dangerous force.

Key Takeaway

Respect its power, channel it responsibly.

Themes

desity danger human nature psychology

Mood

intense conflicted provocative

Type

philosophical psychological literary

When to use this quote

  • relationships
  • art therapy
  • risk assessment
  • personal boundaries

Key Concepts

Eros Thanatos taboo impulse control

Questions to Reflect On

  • How does society shape our view of sexuality?
  • Can desire be harnessed constructively?
A Different Perspective

It may overlook cultural and biological factors that moderate desire.

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