What do you think?
Rate this book
Sublimate
The famous author Honoré de Balzac used to say after sex “there goes another novel!”
Taking it literally, J. M. Tolcher sets out to write an entire book without ejaculating—an experiment in sublimation, desire, and control.
In just over a month, he attempts to channel his libido into art, diving into the ancient alchemical process—nigredo, albedo, citrinitas, rubedo—in a relentless search for meaning.
But what begins as a test of discipline becomes something far more dangerous. Libido, after all, isn’t just about sex. It’s the unseen force shaping power structures, fueling authoritarianism, and dictating the fate of the world itself.
Where does repressed desire go? What happens when it’s not sublimated? And can a man truly master his own urges—or does libido always find a way?
Tolcher returns to form as Australia’s hottest underground writer with another chronicle as cerebral as it is carnal, as philosophical as it is depraved.
Taking it literally, J. M. Tolcher sets out to write an entire book without ejaculating—an experiment in sublimation, desire, and control.
In just over a month, he attempts to channel his libido into art, diving into the ancient alchemical process—nigredo, albedo, citrinitas, rubedo—in a relentless search for meaning.
But what begins as a test of discipline becomes something far more dangerous. Libido, after all, isn’t just about sex. It’s the unseen force shaping power structures, fueling authoritarianism, and dictating the fate of the world itself.
Where does repressed desire go? What happens when it’s not sublimated? And can a man truly master his own urges—or does libido always find a way?
Tolcher returns to form as Australia’s hottest underground writer with another chronicle as cerebral as it is carnal, as philosophical as it is depraved.
64 pages, Kindle Edition
Published March 21, 2025
2 people are currently reading
28 people want to read
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 2 of 2 reviews
January 13, 2026
Sticking with Tolcher’s writing this is very open and honest, touching on parts of some people’s queer experiences that aren’t always explored to such depth.
At times reading this felt a little chaotic but it added to the overall conversation on whether sublimation in this form works.
Quite an interesting read if you want something quick and raw that still dives into some topics you can think on later.
At times reading this felt a little chaotic but it added to the overall conversation on whether sublimation in this form works.
Quite an interesting read if you want something quick and raw that still dives into some topics you can think on later.
May 28, 2025
Interesting
Displaying 1 - 2 of 2 reviews