I wrote a research paper, focusing on erotica. For this, I read one short story from Anais Nin's best known work titled, "The Delta of Venus" and the title of the story was "Mathilde". I also included the work of Ishmat Chughtai titled, "Lihaaf". Both these narratives require in-depth understanding of human desires. In the story 'Mathilde", the protagonist while mating with one of her clients looked at herself in the mirror during the act only to realise how she felt and why she felt that way. Further, she could look at herself without any mask, enjoying the moment. It was with this true understanding of herself, the story concluded. On the other hand, 'Lihaaf' was a bold and complex story of a woman who was devoid of emotional intimacy after her marriage which she found in a young girl. The book was banned because of its unconventional strorytelling and out-of-the-box thinking. The story unfolded the layered quilt which women always try to keep within folds. I presented this paper during an International Conference at Pune. I feel understanding one's own desires is equally a spiritual practice because without this, the path towards spirituality willnever begin.
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