A new perspective on sex education
Arià Paco, an author committed to the dilemmas of his generation, presents his latest work, ‘Theory of Game’, which has been recognized with the Anagrama Books Award. In this novel, the writer delves into the complexities of the characters’ sexual and emotional education, a theme that resonates strongly today, marked by the impact of feminism on the understanding of gender and sexuality.
The male desire in the current context
Paco reflects on the need to address male desire in the context of contemporary heterosexual relationships. In his own words, the book was born of a personal lack, that of a narrative that explored the insecurities and doubts that men face in the face of social and feminist expectations.
A pioneer voice?
Although Paco is not considered a pioneer in the subject, he emphasizes that his work may seem new at a time when men have tended to remain apart from the debate on masculinity. This omission has led to a wrong perception that male concerns are less relevant.
Intimacy in male relationships
The protagonist, Ernest, seeks connections with women to discuss topics he feels he cannot share with his peers. Paco observes that male friendships often leave little space for vulnerability, which can create a feeling of loneliness among men who want to communicate deeper.
The fault pes
Fulfillment and shame are recurring issues in Ernest’s sex education, which go back to their adolescence. Paco uses this emotional background to explore how past experiences influence the perception that men have of their desire and relationships.
Challenges of modern masculinity
The book also addresses the complexity of masculinity through the figure of Gabriel Ferrater, a poet who shares the same struggles as the characters of Paco. His work becomes a reflection of the internal conflicts experienced by men in the face of social pressures.
The influence of social media
Paco acknowledges that technology has transformed the dynamics of relationships, with mobile phones as a central tool in communication between young people. This evolution has brought new ways to connect, but has also generated anxiety that affects affective relationships.
A dialogue required in polarization time
At a time when conversations on feminism and masculinity are so polarized, Paco argues that literature plays a crucial role in facilitating dialogue. His work seeks to offer nuances that enrich the understanding of the most controversial topics.
Reinventing the literary narrative
Paco expresses his concern about the fact that many current books seem to have their moral themes resolved before writing, which limits his ability to open perspectives. He hopes that his work can stimulate a deeper and more authentic reflection on human desire and relationships.