Interesting article. Well written.

I have to say, though, I feel some frustration when women suggest that for men sexual attraction must preclude any feelings of respect, comraderie or desire for friendship. That is certainly not my experience. I have, I confess, had sex with my wife. But that doesn't mean, after forty-two years, she's nothing but a sex object to me.

I've always thought Norwegian Wood was a rather delightful tale of people getting their signals slightly crossed (also heard it was a way for John to confess an affair he had on Cynthia). Yes, he wanted more than conversation. But give the girl some credit here. "We talked until two..." Surely she saw something more in him than just a guy hitting on her.

Interesting conversation about possible arson in the conclusion. I've long thought "So, I lit a fire," was an allusion to masturbation. Maybe not...?