Story of O Pauline Réage Hardcover Grove Press 1965 Seventh Printing

Story of O by Pauline Réage — Grove Press, Seventh Printing

A provocative landmark of erotic literature, Story of O occupies disputed territory between literary art, pornography, and obscenity.

The novel follows O, a Parisian photographer whose devotion to her lover draws her into a world of domination and submission. Beneath its explicit content lie unsettling questions about freedom, consent, identity, and power: Can surrender be an expression of personal choice? At what point does devotion become the erasure of the self?

Originally published in France in 1954, the novel challenged assumptions about women’s authorship and desire. Pauline Réage was the pseudonym of Anne Desclos, also known as Dominique Aury, whose authorship remained publicly concealed for decades.

Censorship and controversy: The book faced obscenity proceedings and restrictions in France. In Montreal, authorities seized copies in 1967, leading to prolonged legal proceedings. Its history makes it a compelling starting point for discussing whether obscenity resides in a work’s subject matter, its treatment, or the values of its audience.

Collector interest: Its place in twentieth-century erotic literature, concealed authorship, and censorship history give Story of O lasting interest for collectors of controversial fiction and books concerning literary freedom. This Grove Press seventh printing offers a vintage edition with a well-preserved dust jacket.

Copy details:

- Publisher: Grove Press

- Copyright: 1965

- Printing: Seventh printing

- Dust jacket: Excellent condition; protected in a clear archival wrapper

A thought-provoking addition to a collection exploring sexuality, power, censorship, and the boundaries of art.