In 'Mating', Norman Rush takes readers on a provocative journey into the heart of the Botswana wilderness, where a young American woman seeks to unravel the complexities of love, identity, and the human experience. This captivating narrative intricately weaves themes of feminism, politics, and existentialism, challenging conventional notions of relationships. As she navigates her desires amidst cultural tensions, the protagonist encounters a mysterious anthropologist who opens her eyes to a world of intellectual and emotional possibilities. The exploration of mating transcends mere biology, probing deeper into the intricacies of human connection and societal expectations. With its rich prose and challenging ideas, 'Mating' leaves readers pondering the nature of love and self-discovery long after the final page.
By Norman Rush
Published: 1992
""We are all born with the capacity to love, but as we grow, we often forget what it means to truly connect with another soul.""
NATIONAL BOOK AWARD WINNER • Is love between equals possible? This modern classic is a delightful intellectual love story that explores the deepest canyons of romantic love even as it asks large questions about society, geopolitics, and the mystery of what men and women really want. “Luminous…Few books evoke the state of love at its apogee.” —The New York Times Book Review “The best rendering of erotic politics…since D.H. Lawrence…The voice of Rush’s narrator is immediate, instructive and endearing.” —The New York Review of Books The narrator of this splendidly expansive novel of high intellect and grand passion is an American anthropologist at loose ends in the South African republic of Botswana. She has a noble and exacting mind, a compelling waist, and a busted thesis project. She also has a yen for Nelson Denoon, a charismatic intellectual who is rumored to have founded a secretive and unorthodox utopian society in a remote corner of the Kalahari—one in which he is virtually the only man. What ensues is an exhilarating quest and an exuberant comedy of manners: “A dryly comic love story about grown-up people who take the life of the mind seriously.” —Newsweek
Showing 8 of 27 similar books
Gaby Goldberg is an investor and Web3 advocate, focusing on the intersection of consumer technology, culture, and decentralized finance (DeFi). She works with TCG (The Chernin Group), where she invests in companies that are shaping the future of digital platforms and social communities. Goldberg is passionate about how blockchain technology can empower creators and foster new forms of ownership and collaboration. She is also a vocal advocate for women in tech and frequently shares insights on the future of the internet and decentralized systems. Her work positions her as a key figure in the growing Web3 and crypto ecosystems.
Barack Obama is the 44th President of the United States, serving from 2009 to 2017. As the first African American president, Obama’s leadership marked a historic moment in American history. His administration focused on healthcare reform, economic recovery from the Great Recession, and environmental policies. He is best known for the Affordable Care Act, as well as his efforts to expand civil rights and restore diplomatic relations with Cuba. Since leaving office, Obama has continued to engage in public life through his foundation, focusing on leadership development, civic engagement, and global issues.
Diana Kimball is an entrepreneur, author, and founder of the mentorship platform Mentor List, which connects people looking for guidance with industry leaders. Kimball is a champion for personal and professional development, emphasizing the power of mentorship to foster growth and build meaningful connections. She has worked in product management and marketing roles at companies like Twitter and Microsoft, bringing her unique insights into tech and community building. Kimball also speaks and writes on topics related to leadership, career development, and the importance of empathy in the workplace. Her work has helped people build stronger networks and pursue their goals with purpose.
Bozoma Saint John is a renowned business executive and marketing guru, celebrated for her transformative impact on major companies such as Uber, Apple Music, and Netflix. Though primarily known for her corporate achievements, Saint John captured her experiences and insights in her memoir, "The Urgent Life," which offers an intimate look into overcoming personal and professional challenges. Her dynamic storytelling and candid approach have inspired many, making her a significant voice in contemporary literature. Beyond her memoir, she has been a prominent advocate for diversity and inclusion in the workplace. Her work continues to influence both the business and literary worlds, blending leadership lessons with deeply personal narratives.
Emily Ratajkowski is a renowned model, actress, and author, who gained prominence in the entertainment industry through her work in fashion and film. She made a significant literary contribution with her debut book, "My Body," published in 2021, which explores themes of feminism, sexuality, and empowerment. The book received critical acclaim for its insightful and candid examination of her experiences in the public eye. Ratajkowski's writing has been praised for its depth and honesty, shedding light on the complexities of body politics and personal agency. Beyond her literary endeavors, she continues to use her platform to advocate for women's rights and social justice.
Colleen Hoover is a bestselling American author renowned for her impactful contributions to contemporary romance and new adult fiction. She debuted with "Slammed" in 2012, which quickly gained popularity and set the stage for her prolific writing career. Hoover's novel "It Ends with Us" has been particularly celebrated for its nuanced handling of sensitive topics, earning her widespread acclaim and multiple awards. Several of her books, including "Verity" and "Ugly Love," have topped the New York Times Best Seller list, solidifying her status as a prominent figure in modern literature. Beyond writing, Hoover actively engages with her readers and supports charitable causes through her nonprofit, The Bookworm Box.
Tim Ferriss is a bestselling author, entrepreneur, and podcast host, best known for his book The 4-Hour Workweek, which advocates for designing a lifestyle of financial and personal freedom through efficiency and outsourcing. He has written several other books, including Tools of Titans and Tribe of Mentors, compiling lessons from interviews with high achievers across industries. Ferriss’s podcast, The Tim Ferriss Show, is one of the most popular in the world, where he interviews leaders and influencers about their habits, strategies, and personal development. He is known for his emphasis on productivity, health, and optimizing performance.
Emma Watson is a British actress and activist best known for her role as Hermione Granger in the "Harry Potter" film series, which brought J.K. Rowling's beloved books to life. Beyond her acting career, Watson has made significant contributions to literature by promoting gender equality and women's rights through her work with the United Nations, including the HeForShe campaign. She has also curated and shared book recommendations that highlight feminist literature and diverse voices. Watson graduated from Brown University with a degree in English literature, further emphasizing her dedication to the literary world. Her advocacy and influence have made her a prominent figure in both the entertainment and literary communities.
Showing 8 of 11 related collections
“"We are all born with the capacity to love, but as we grow, we often forget what it means to truly connect with another soul."”
Mating
By Norman Rush
Discover a world of knowledge through our extensive collection of book summaries.
Norman Rush is an acclaimed American author known for his insightful explorations of societal and personal themes. His notable works include the National Book Award-winning novel 'Mating,' which delves into the complexities of relationships and cultural dynamics in Botswana, and 'Mortals,' a narrative that examines the moral intricacies of the modern world. Rush's writing style is characterized by its intellectual rigor, rich prose, and keen psychological insights, often blending sharp wit with profound philosophical inquiries.
Key information about the book.
Buy on Amazon
Buy via BookShopSupport local bookstores: BookShop gives a portion of each sale to independent bookshops!
In 'The Upside of Stress', Kelly McGonigal challenges the conventional wisdom that stress is inherently harmful. Instead, she argues that our mindset about stress can transform our experience of it into a force for growth and resilience. Through engaging anecdotes and scientific research, McGonigal reveals how embracing stress can enhance our performance and deepen our connections with others. This compelling exploration invites readers to rethink their relationship with stress and discover its surprising potential. Are you ready to flip the script on stress and unlock its hidden benefits?
In 'The Spy and the Traitor,' Ben Macintyre delves into the riveting true story of Oleg Gordievsky, a double agent whose daring actions turned the tide of the Cold War. As a high-ranking officer in the KGB, Gordievsky secretly collaborated with British intelligence, risking his life to expose Soviet secrets. The book combines thrilling espionage with deep psychological insight, revealing the moral complexities faced by spies. With masterful storytelling, Macintyre captures the tension of a world on the brink of nuclear war and the ultimate quest for freedom. Will Gordievsky's bravery save the West or seal his fate?
In 'The Glass Castle,' Jeannette Walls recounts her unconventional upbringing in a deeply dysfunctional family led by her eccentric, free-spirited parents. Through poignant anecdotes, she unveils a childhood of poverty, neglect, and resilience, navigating the complexities of love and loyalty. As she examines the impact of her parents' decisions, Walls confronts the fine line between admiration and disdain. The narrative transforms trauma into triumph, all while revealing the complexities of human relationships. This memoir invites readers to question the meaning of home and the true definition of success.
In 'Trespass', we delve into the intertwined lives of two strangers whose chance encounter leads to a chilling exploration of secrets and betrayal. As past traumas resurface, the novel intricately weaves themes of identity and moral ambiguity. The narrative unfolds with a gripping pace, pulling readers into a web of psychological tension. Can trust be rebuilt when boundaries are crossed? Prepare for a thought-provoking journey that raises haunting questions about the nature of human connection.
In "What Technology Wants," Kevin Kelly delves into the deep interplay between humanity and technology, suggesting that technology is an extension of life itself. He argues that just like biological evolution, technology has its own agenda and desires, shaping our future in profound ways. Through a blend of philosophical insights and real-world examples, Kelly reveals how technological advancements reflect our aspirations and fears. As he explores the notion of 'the technium'—a vast, interconnected web of technology—readers are invited to reconsider their relationship with the tools they create. This thought-provoking journey challenges us to embrace technology as a living entity that influences and drives our evolution.
In 'Exhalation,' Ted Chiang invites readers into a universe where the boundaries of science fiction and philosophy beautifully intertwine. Through a series of thought-provoking stories, he explores the nature of consciousness, free will, and the essence of existence itself. Each narrative unfolds like a delicate puzzle, challenging our perceptions of time and reality. As the characters confront their own limitations and the inevitability of change, readers are prompted to reflect on life’s most profound questions. This collection leaves an indelible mark, urging us to ponder what it truly means to be alive.
In 'The Blind Watchmaker', Richard Dawkins challenges the notion of intelligent design by exploring the mechanisms of evolution through natural selection. He uses the metaphor of a watchmaker to illustrate how complex life can arise from simple processes without a guiding hand. With vivid examples and thought-provoking insights, Dawkins reveals the beauty of adaptation and the intricate workings of life. The book invites readers to ponder the origins of life and the power of chance in shaping the natural world. Prepare to have your beliefs tested and your understanding of biology deepened in this fascinating journey through evolution.
In 'The Bluest Eye', Toni Morrison unveils the heartbreaking story of Pecola Breedlove, an African American girl growing up in the 1940s who yearns for blue eyes and the beauty she believes they represent. As her desperate quest for acceptance and love unfolds, the novel explores themes of race, identity, and societal beauty standards through the lens of a painful childhood. Morrison's poetic prose immerses readers in the stark realities of a world that devalues those who do not conform to its ideals. Throughout the narrative, the complexities of familial relationships and community dynamics are poignantly revealed. This powerful tale of longing and despair challenges readers to confront their own perceptions of beauty and worth.
Download our mobile app to enjoy your favorite books on the go. Get access to exclusive features, offline listening, and personalized recommendations.
