Sex Is Merely Academic (Press, 8 August 1987)
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Summary: Sex Is Merely Academic (Press, 8 August 1987)
"Felicity," a novel by Coral Lansbury, published in 1987, delves into the peculiar dynamics of academic life, exploring themes of intellect and sexuality within the setting of Pequod College. The story highlights the struggles of academics, who are portrayed as both confident and deeply insecure about their intellectual abilities. At the same time, their sexual desires contribute to an even greater level of uncertainty, resulting in an environment rife with various sexual identities and interactions. Lansbury, an Australian author with degrees from Auckland and currently serving as a Professor of English at Rutgers University in the United States, crafts a narrative filled with characters that range from rapists to nymphomaniacs, illustrating a diverse array of sexualised behaviours. The novel depicts a chaotic existence where proud virgins clash with desperate ones, and lecturers find themselves in precarious situations with students. There is a recurring theme of researchers whose quests for knowledge often lead them into erotic territories, further complicating their academic roles. The writing style reflects influences from other satirical authors like Tom Sharpe and Kingsley Amis, although the reviewer Ken Strongman notes that Lansbury's work does not reach the comedic heights of Sharpe or the literary finesse of Amis. Despite this, "Felicity" is described as a worthwhile read that effectively conveys a clear message: when academics engage with sexuality, the outcomes tend to be characterised by awkwardness, kinkiness, or a complete lack of fulfillment. This exploration results in an amusing phenomenon for readers observing the drama unfold. Ultimately, the novel captures a vivid portrayal of the academic world through a lens of humour and critique, making it a notable addition to literature that examines life in the academy.
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