“Adriana loved even the rank animal smell of the man's body, her sweat-slicked breasts and belly flattened beneath him, and her arms and legs clutching him as a drowning woman might clutch another person to save her life. Don't don't don't don't leave me. DON'T LEAVE ME. As in animal copulation the frenzy is to be locked together not out of sentiment or choice but physical compulsion. As if bolts of electric current ran through both their bodies and would only release them from each other when it ceased.”

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About Joyce Carol Oates

American novelist and critic, 1938–present. She is best known for her prolific output of psychological fiction, exploring themes of isolation, trauma, and human resilience. Her work spans more than five decades, blending literary depth with unflinching social commentary.

More from Joyce Carol Oates (203 quotes) →
"Adriana loved even the rank animal smell of the man's body, her sweat…" — Joyce Carol Oates | Daily Quotes