To inhabit this gap, to prolong and enrich it, is also the task of pornography. But pornography by definition must direct desire towards climax. Rao's tales arouse—sexually or otherwise—but refuse, in the end, to satiate.
Seven of the 15 stories have queer themes, with a pronounced drive for sexual freedom. But this drive is pitted against postponement and frustration. In this scenario, a much-needed vision of gay liberation turns sour.
The collection is somewhat scatological and has invited comparison with Jean Genet. But Rao is probably closer to the gay French modern, Marcel Proust. Inspired by a madeleine dipped in tea, Proust locks himself up in a cork-lined apartment and recalls times past. Rao one day locks his flat in soul city and ventures out, only to return to his cup of coffee, happier contemplating the world from his window. An insightful read into the lives of those who live and love alone.
