Early Chapters: The Secret of Life

[Stephanie]

Don Juan says that "One who understands the workings of desire understands the very secret of life -- even the barren life of a King's daughter" (p. 20). What is this secret of life? Why does the Infanta not call the guards? Why does she -- or why does any woman -- allow herself to be seduced?

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Note: This topic refers to events through the chapter titled "The Education of a Libertine" (through p. 80). Some readers of this thread may not have finished the book. If you are referring to events that occur after "The Education of a Libertine" please use "Spoiler Warning" in the subject line of your post. Thanks!

[smg5775]

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Stephanie wrote:

Don Juan says that "One who understands the workings of desire understands the very secret of life -- even the barren life of a King's daughter" (p. 20). What is this secret of life? Why does the Infanta not call the guards? Why does she -- or why does any woman -- allow herself to be seduced?

The secret of life is to be loved and desired for yourself and yourself alone. No one wants to be wanted only because they have money or can do something for a person. The Infanta doesn't call the guards because Don Juan comes not looking for power or money. He is going to show the Infanta how to love and be loved and desired and how powerful that will make her. He asks for nothing but her company. And why do we woman allow ourselves to be seduced? Because it feels good not to have to give everything we have and are unless we want to. It's a wonderfully sensual feeling knowing that someone wants to give to us instead of taking from us and that someone desires us.

Sheila