Despite the submissive heroine, and the passive intentions of the author, Story of O was too powerful a literary work to remain hidden beneath the veils of censorship. Categorized as erotic fiction and nearly censored for being offensive, it has been subsequently praised as a brilliant work of the mind, presented in clear prose. Written more than fifty years ago, it remains a talked about and influential novel, even today.
Who is Pauline Reage?
Pauline Reage created such a controversial book, that even she did not reveal her true identity for decades after publication. In 1994, 86 year old Dominique Aury publicly announced that she was the author of Story of O. Already a respected literary figure in France, and publicly perceived as a conservative middle-aged woman, no one suspected Aury. The few that did know her identity, never released the information.
Dominique Aury wrote Story of O at the age of 47. She did not write the book for publication, nor to shock and appall the 1950's French literary world. She scribbled the story down in pencil, writing deep into the night, to complete a work to entice her own lover — Jean Paulhan. Although married, and much older, it seems that the author was devoted to Paulhan, and wanted to produce something to hold his interest (he was known for enjoying erotic literature). Upon reading Story of O, Paulhan convinced Aury to finish the work as a complete novel, and have it published.
Jean Paulhan wrote the preface to the novel, titled, 'Happiness in Slavery.' He, along with the publisher were questioned by French authorities when the work was first released. Although never officially a censored book, Story of O remained a controversial literary work.
Censorship and Acceptance of Story of O
Story of O was published in France in the summer of 1954. Although provocative and unconventional art was not unpopular in Paris during the mid-twentieth century, Aury's work of fiction may have crossed too many boundaries. It was awarded the Prix des Deux Magots in 1955. This literary prize brought recognition, praise, and public outcry.
Negative public attention fueled an official police investigation against the indecency of this controversial book. Charges were brought against the publisher, Jean-Jacques Pauvert, and perhaps would have been brought against Pauline Reage, if the name were more than a pseudonym. Paulhan and Pauvert were interrogated, but no one was officially charged or arrested. The investigation was later dropped, under orders from a high government official.
After avoiding official censorship in France, Story of O was published in the United States, and later Britain. In 1963 the rights were sold to an American publisher. The first copies were held by customs officers, but were later released to be published. It was introduced to Britain in 1970.
The Legacy of Pauline Reage
Aury's work has gone on to sell millions of copies worldwide. It has not only been revered as an exemplary piece of erotic literature — Story of O has been repeatedly lauded as a magnificent, even mystical work, delving into the inner workings of the mind and consciousness. On the surface, the book is about dominance and submission; on a deeper level it addresses release of the body and connection to spirit. It was listed as one of France's great national triumphs in 2004. The story has been adapted for screen, and remade into an illustrated book.
Today, Story of O remains controversial. It has been criticized by feminist groups, concerned with the extreme portrayal of a submissive woman. It is a story that, even the most liberal personality will be shocked by. This perhaps is the beauty of Aury's book, as is often the case with censored literature; Story of O makes the reader think, question, and most importantly, feel another aspect of consciousness that exists far beyond the norm.
Sources:
Reage, Pauline. "Story of O." (Grove Press, 1965).
Bedell, Geraldine. "I wrote the Story of O." (The Observer, July 25, 2004).
"The True Story of the Story of O by Pauline Reage." (BBC's H2G2).
Brenna Coleman - Brenna is a freelance writer focusing on natural health and beauty. She has written hundreds of articles, helping readers find ways to ...
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