Characters such as Sir Stephen and Anne-Marie play huge parts in the subjugation of O, but we never find out who they are either.

But perhaps that is why the story is so enthralling, because there is always an element of mystery. I also wanted to know more about the château, or ‘Roissy’, where O is first introduced to the chains. I would have liked to know more about O’s history with Ren é. And although O does not want sympathy – in fact she feels sorry for other women – I cannot help but feel deeply sad for her. A woman giving up her life and her free will for a man is not what I’d call empowering to women. It’s partly her love for him that makes me angry – a love that is very one sided. I was perplexed with the character of O, a sophisticated fashion photographer, who has consented to be a slave for the love of Ren é. On the one hand I found the writing and the plot captivating, but on the other, I was disappointed that it was not at all (at least in my opinion) empowering. My feelings towards this dark and disturbing book are very confused. And it’s true, there’s no obscene language and definitely no embarrassing moments to giggle at. I’d read that Story of O was a ‘…pornographic book well written and without a trace of obscenity’ (and who doesn’t trust Graham Greene?)īut I was still pleasantly surprised with the writing. Having not read any erotic fiction, I wasn’t too sure what to expect. I had certainly expected (and hoped) to be shocked by the language and content, but instead I only found the book emotionally draining.

Story of O – the highly praised erotic classic – I was so very intrigued when I picked it up.

Story of O by Pauline Réage