The Sex Appeal of the Inorganic: Mario Perniola

Introduction

In his book "The Sex Appeal of the Inorganic," Mario Perniola argues that the inorganic world is not simply a lifeless backdrop for human activity, but rather a source of erotic fascination and desire. Drawing on a wide range of sources, from ancient mythology to contemporary art and literature, Perniola shows how the inorganic has been eroticized throughout history.

The Inorganic as Object of Desire

Perniola begins by arguing that the inorganic world is not simply a collection of inert objects, but rather a realm of potential erotic encounters. He points to the way that certain inorganic materials, such as metal and stone, have been used in art and literature to represent the body and its desires. For example, in the ancient Greek myth of Pygmalion, the sculptor falls in love with a statue he has created out of ivory. In the modern era, the Italian artist Lucio Fontana used metal and glass to create sculptures that explore the relationship between the body and the machine.

The Inorganic as Source of Pleasure

Perniola also argues that the inorganic world can be a source of pleasure. He points to the way that certain inorganic materials, such as silk and fur, have been used in clothing and other objects to create a sense of luxury and comfort. In the modern era, the development of new technologies has made it possible to create even more pleasurable inorganic objects, such as vibrators and sex robots.

The Inorganic as Threat

While Perniola argues that the inorganic world can be a source of erotic fascination and pleasure, he also acknowledges that it can be a source of threat. He points to the way that inorganic objects, such as weapons and machines, have been used to inflict pain and destruction. In the modern era, the development of nuclear weapons has raised the specter of the total annihilation of the human race.

Conclusion

In "The Sex Appeal of the Inorganic," Mario Perniola offers a provocative and insightful exploration of the relationship between the human and the inorganic. He shows how the inorganic world is not simply a lifeless backdrop for human activity, but rather a source of erotic fascination, pleasure, and threat. Perniola's book is a must-read for anyone interested in the relationship between the human and the non-human.

Why You Should Read This Book

"The Sex Appeal of the Inorganic" is a fascinating and thought-provoking book that will change the way you think about the world around you. Perniola's writing is clear and engaging, and he provides a wealth of examples to support his arguments. This book is a must-read for anyone interested in the relationship between the human and the non-human, or for anyone who is simply curious about the world around them.

Order Your Copy Today!

"The Sex Appeal of the Inorganic" is available now from all major booksellers. Order your copy today and start exploring the erotic potential of the inorganic world!