First presented as miraculously rediscovered Greek erotic poetry, the Songs of Bilitis were infact the work of French author Pierre Louÿs – nevertheless, they were acclaimed for their sensual style and beauty.
The frank depictions of lesbianism in the context of classical Greece were a marriage of two trends popular in late 19th century France. Homosexuality in literature was a novel subject hitherto considered tantalizing and taboo, while the artistic and aesthetic culture of antiquity received homage from several realms of creativity. Louÿs offers a frank presentation of a lesbian couple in Greece, embarking on a journey of sexual discovery and enjoyment tempered by the traumatic experiences of Bilitis.
Through her sexuality, Bilitis is shown to mature emotionally, her lesbianism proving a catalyst for physical and mental change. The transience of love and sexual experience, the wisdom gained from her indulgence, and the emotive depth of passion, longing and eventual estrangement construct the essence of Louÿs’ personal, expressive growth.
Popular with audiences and the lesbian community for decades, this 1926 English edition of the Songs of Bilitis contains 30 illustrations by Willy Pogany.
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