The Idler 40: Carnal Knowledge

Sex today seems too much like hard work. Magazines tell us we have to put more effort in and learn new tips. So how can we bring the playfulness back? The most provocative Idler yet features an exclusive cover from Damien Hirst and an interview with Esther Perel, author of the best-seller Mating in Captivity. Michael Bywater condemns the rise of frantic sex. Neil Boorman asks whether he is the only one who s not doing it all day every day, and attacks the adman s commercialization of sex. Jay Griffiths argues that the real spirit of Christmas is bawdy and raucous and naughty. Sarah Janes reveals her sex-dream diaries, and Nicholas Lezard wonders where all the fun went. We meet Kevin Godley of 10cc fame and feature new work from Gee Vaucher and Penny Rimbaud. With its mix of savage humor, warm wisdom, radical thought, and uncompromising art, The Idler will amuse, instruct, and help bring the pleasure back into everyday life.