In Search of Pure Lust

Coming out in 1976, Lise Weil embraced her sexuality during a time when lesbian feminism was at an all-time high. Her memoir, In Search of Pure Lust, paints a portrait of lesbian culture in the ’70s and ’80s, while drawing a parallel between the desire and knowledge Weil found in herself and the women around her. After 15 years of passionate yet unsuccessful affairs and political turmoil, a desperate Weil agrees to accompany a friend on a Zen retreat—where she finds enlightenment and something like real love. Search out the author when she comes to Harvard Book Store on June 22. / Cathryn Haight