Is sex necessary? - Why you feel the way you do (With original Illustrations)

James Thurber, E.B. White

Summary

Is Sex Necessary? Why You Feel the Way You Do was the first book of prose published by James Thurber and E.B. White, a landmark collaboration that blends their unmatched humor and literary genius. Together, they examine the great mysteries of life—romance, love, and marriage—with a satirical twist. A timeless spoof of the era's scientific sexual theories, the book offers a sidesplitting critique of men, women, and the psychologists who sought to explain their behavior. Enhanced by more than fifty of Thurber's iconic illustrations, this enduring masterpiece remains as sharp and relevant as ever.
In a 1950 preface, White reflected on the book's origins: "Thurber and I were neither more, nor less, interested in the subject of love and marriage than anybody else of our age in that era. I recall that we were both profoundly interested in earning a living, and I think we somehow managed, simultaneously, to arrive at the conclusion that ... the heavy writers had got sex down and were breaking its arm. We were determined that sex should maintain its high spirits."
Writing alternate chapters and then comparing them for overlap, Thurber and White infused the text with invented pseudo-sexual jargon—terms like "Diversion Subterfuge," "Osculatory Justification," and "Schmalhausen Trouble." They even fabricated a cast of imaginary psychologists and sex researchers, including the illustrious Dr. Karl Zaner and Dr. Walter Titheridge, to enhance their satirical edge.
A work of unmatched drollery and creativity, Is Sex Necessary? transcends its time to delight readers with its clever commentary and unrelenting humor. It is a celebration of the absurdities of human relationships and the resilience of good cheer in the face of complexity.

Available since: 01/17/2025.

Print length: 98 pages.

Other books that might interest you

Beyond Good and Evil -...

Friedrich Nietzsche, Tim Zengerink

What if you could challenge conventional morality, seek deeper truths, and unlock the strength to live authentically and powerfully?
Beyond Good and Evil: Philosophy of Morality, Truth, and Human Strength presents Friedrich Nietzsche’s groundbreaking exploration of ethics, truth, and human nature, now thoughtfully adapted for today’s listeners.
Written in the late 19th century, Beyond Good and Evil critiques traditional morality and calls on humanity to rise above simplistic notions of “good” and “evil.” Nietzsche invites us to question societal norms, embrace intellectual freedom, and cultivate the strength to create our own values and meaning.
This isn’t just a philosophical work—it’s a transformative guide to thinking independently, embracing life’s complexities, and unlocking your potential to live with purpose and power. Nietzsche’s insights resonate deeply in today’s world, challenging listeners to confront assumptions and discover their true strength.
What You’ll Discover:
- The Truth About Morality: Examine how traditional ideas of “good” and “evil” limit personal and societal growth.
- Intellectual Freedom and Power: Learn to think independently, question everything, and embrace complexity.
- Human Strength and Individuality: Rise above conformity, cultivate resilience, and create your own values.
Clear, Accessible Language: Experience Nietzsche’s ideas in a modern translation that’s easy to understand and apply.
- Nietzsche’s vision challenges us to embrace intellectual courage, authenticity, and the strength to break free from conventional thinking.
Imagine having the tools to explore life’s deeper questions, break through limiting beliefs, and create a life of meaning and authenticity.
Download your copy today and transform your understanding of morality, truth, and human strength with Nietzsche’s timeless wisdom.

Show book

The Tragedy of a Comic Song -...

Leonard Merrick

The bookshelves of British literature are incredible collections that have gathered together centuries of very talented authors.  From these Isles their fame spread and whilst among their number many are now forgotten or neglected their talents endure.  Among them is Walter Besant.

Show book

The Third Book of Baruch - A...

Anonymous (Jewish Mysticism)

What lies beyond the physical world? How do the heavens reveal the mysteries of creation and divine will? 
The Third Book of Baruch is a captivating work of ancient Jewish apocalyptic literature—offering a visionary journey through the heavens and a glimpse into the divine mysteries of creation, judgment, and cosmic order. Attributed to an anonymous author and rooted in Jewish mysticism, this powerful text explores humanity’s connection to the divine and the spiritual realms beyond our world. 
Now available in a modern, accessible translation, this edition brings clarity and depth to one of the most enigmatic sacred texts. 
What you'll discover inside:A Journey Through the Heavens – Baruch is guided by an angel through celestial realms filled with divine wondersThe Mysteries of Creation – Insights into the structure of the cosmos, the spiritual hierarchy, and God’s planLessons on Righteousness and Judgment – Teachings on morality, justice, and humanity’s higher purposeA Unique Window into Jewish Mysticism – Ancient spiritual themes that continue to inspire seekers today 
Whether you're drawn to apocalyptic literature, mystical traditions, or the search for deeper truth, The Third Book of Baruch offers a profound exploration of faith and the unseen world. 
Begin your journey today and uncover the timeless wisdom hidden within the heavens.

Show book

Dragged into the Light -...

Tony Russo

As Seen on VICE TV's “The Devil You Know” Season 2 
Ohio housewife Sherry Shriner grew to prominence as a social media cult leader, flourishing in the era of conspiracy theories and the 9/11 Truther movement. 
She preached the virtues of mysterious orgone energy and Christian prayer as defensive shields against the forces of darkness, including Lucifer and his demons; reptilian shapeshifters masquerading as human elites; the New World Order; cell phone towers; even hostile UFOs that flamed out over her home, visible only as shooting stars. 
Amazingly, she built a coterie of passionate devotees. The more outrageous the lie, the more fervent their belief. 
In 2017, she told follower Steven Mineo that his girlfriend, Barbara Rogers, was a witch who would kill him. A month later, Steven was dead, and Barbara was in jail charged with his murder. 
Steven’s death proved Sherry’s divinity to her followers, but in reality, he was just the latest casualty in a string of online trolling attacks that had left an earlier believer dead of suicide and still more cast into the outer darkness of cyberspace. 
Journalist Tony Russo follows Sherry Shriner’s cult, digs into its bizarre beliefs, and reports on the shredded lives and reputations surrounding an otherwise-nondescript woman who transformed herself into a web-based evangelist. 
The incredible story is documented in dogged reporting, surviving internet chats and transcripts, and voluminous police records.

Show book

A Rare Recording of Film Icon...

Burt Lancaster

Burton Stephen Lancaster (November 2, 1913 - October 20, 1994), born in New York City, was an American actor, producer and director. Initially known for playing tough guys with a tender heart, he went on to achieve success with more complex and challenging roles over a 45-year career in films and television. He was a four-time Academy Award Best Actor nominee, winning the Oscar and Golden Globe for the 1960 film, Elmer Gantry, and BAFTA award winner for Birdman of Alcatraz (1963) and Atlantic City (1982). The following recordings are from tv interviews from 1963 and 1973.

Show book

Napoleon: The Mind Behind the...

Anthony Mann

This audiobook provides an intimate look into the mind of Napoleon Bonaparte through his own words and reflections. Curated from a vast array of historical literature, it focuses on Napoleon's personal thoughts, feelings, and perspectives on his life and career. The audiobook is organized thematically into chapters exploring Napoleon's upbringing and family relationships, his views on life, love, and women, his insights on leadership and human nature, and his opinions on national characteristics. Listeners are given a glimpse into Napoleon's self-awareness, ambitions, regrets, and even apprehensions, as expressed in his confidential letters, documents, and conversations. Spanning from his days as a young Corsican soldier to his final years in exile, this collection aims to unveil the complexity of Napoleon's inner world. From triumph to defeat, joy to despair, confidence to doubt, Napoleon's candid reflections reveal a man both flawed and brilliant. This audiobook provides a compelling window into the emperor's mind and spirit.

Show book