Investigating Sex: Surrealist Discussions [Paperback]

José Pierre (Editor), Malcolm Imrie (Translator)

Book Description

Publication Date: August 17, 1994

A revealing exploration of the sexual lives of leading surrealists.

In January 1928, the surrealists initiated their remarkable “researches into sexuality” with a series of round-table conversations involving key figures such as André Breton, Yves Tanguy, Louis Aragon, Man Ray, Max Ernst and Antonin Artaud. The transcripts, in all their bizarre and fascinating detail, are presented here. While there is plenty of humor—not all of it intentional—the speakers were trying scrupulously to record every aspect of sexual love, cataloging preferences and positions, quality and quantity. This book is a unique historical record of sexual practice and ethics; a fundamental text for understanding the surrealist movement and, for all its idiosyncrasies, a document that still retains an extraordinary vitality today. 

Editorial Reviews

Review

“These discussions are absolutely fascinating.” (Kathy Acker )

“The surrealist’s approach to sexuality was original and important … I feel this book will amaze us all.” (George Melly )

About the Author

José Pierre was a playwright, novelist and art historian. He belonged to the postwar Paris surrealist group that formed around André Breton. He was a member of Actual, an archive for the dissemination of the secret history of surrealism.

Product Details

• Paperback: 224 pages
• Publisher: Verso (August 17, 1994)
• Language: English
• ISBN-10: 0860916030
• ISBN-13: 978-0860916031
• Product Dimensions: 8.9 x 5.6 x 0.6 inches
• Shipping Weight: 14.1 ounces
• Amazon Best Sellers Rank: #1,695,938 in Books (See Top 100 in Books)
  • #56 in Books > Arts & Photography > Schools, Periods & Styles > Surrealism