A great many cultures have believed that the absolute unity of two beings can only be achieved through the act of sexual intercourse. Additionally, we are destined to be eternally charmed by death. Thus, why not attempt to reach the state of absolute unity with death through the process of copulation with a corpse, a natural symbol of death?

Is Lucien such a complex character to have had these considerations? I do not believe so. I consider his desire to be ruled by the need for absolute control over the sexual object and the sexual desire itself which I believe arises from the fact of control. Nevertheless, his descriptions of the lifeless bodies he desecrates are in a way too beautiful to be merely despised, and they are ultimately what poised my thoughts I have expressed at the beginning of this short review.

Indeed, a book that could have easily failed as just another trivial shocker, was elevated by Gabrielle's gorgeous poetic prose, and for it, I am thankful.