Lust & Wonder

LustandWonderAMemoir

Lust & Wonder is a memoir by Augusten Burroughs, published in 2016. It is the third installment in a series that includes Running with Scissors (2002) and Dry (2003), which delve into the author's personal life experiences. Lust & Wonder chronicles Burroughs' life in New York City, focusing on his relationships and the challenges of finding love, while also exploring themes of self-discovery and personal growth.

Summary

In Lust & Wonder, Burroughs navigates through a series of romantic relationships, each revealing different facets of his personality and his quest for happiness. The memoir begins with Burroughs reflecting on his past relationships and the patterns of lust and wonder that have characterized them. He shares his experiences of falling in and out of love, the excitement of new romance, and the eventual realization that lust alone cannot sustain a relationship.

As the narrative progresses, Burroughs delves deeper into his struggles with anxiety, depression, and the remnants of his troubled childhood, which was marked by abuse and neglect. Despite these challenges, he maintains a sense of humor and a hopeful outlook on life. The memoir also touches on Burroughs' career as a writer, providing insights into his creative process and the ways in which his personal life influences his work.

Throughout Lust & Wonder, Burroughs examines the concept of wonder as a powerful force that can lead to true connection and lasting love. He ultimately finds this sense of wonder with his partner, Christopher, and the memoir concludes with their decision to marry, symbolizing Burroughs' journey towards self-acceptance and fulfillment.

Themes

Lust & Wonder explores several key themes, including:

• Love and Relationships: The memoir examines the complexities of romantic relationships, from the initial stages of attraction and lust to the deeper connections that form over time.
• Self-Discovery: Burroughs' journey is one of personal growth and self-awareness, as he learns to navigate his emotions and understand his own needs and desires.
• Resilience: Despite facing numerous challenges, Burroughs demonstrates resilience and the ability to overcome adversity, highlighting the strength of the human spirit.
• Creativity: The book offers a glimpse into Burroughs' life as a writer, showing how his personal experiences shape his creative output.

Reception

Lust & Wonder received positive reviews from critics, who praised Burroughs' candid storytelling and his ability to infuse humor into serious topics. The memoir was noted for its emotional depth and the author's insightful reflections on love and life.

See Also

• Running with Scissors
• Dry
• Memoir
• Augusten Burroughs