This book turns our search for intimacy on its head, suggesting that our way to creativity in love may be through idiocy. The book takes its readers on a journey through the work of Plato and Melanie Klein in theorizing the dynamics of intimacy while exploring some of the paradoxical aspects of love in works by Fyodor Dostoevsky and French filmmaker Catherine Breillat. Revisiting core concepts of how we think about relationships, the book lays out a model for relational breakdown—the idiot lovecycle—in which we are constantly in the flux between seeing ourselves and seeing the other. Effecting close readings of literary, philosophical, and psychoanalytical sources, the book draws on parallels between these fields of inquiry while tracing their shared intellectual genealogy, suggesting that the tension between Narcissus and Cassandra, with its inherent conflicts, is also the space through which love emerges from intimacy.

The comprehensive guide to getting close—and closer . . . Renowned psychologist Dr. Paul Coleman gives readers a step–by–step, clear path to improving their relationships by helping them identify intimacy problems, understand key differences between men and women, change perceptions, overcome arguments, and effectively communicate. He also covers sexual intimacy and affection issues, including intimacy during stressful times, transitions, and as relationships progress. This book is a beacon for those looking to solve their struggles with intimacy. • Tools and exercises for both physical and emotional intimacy • Self-assessment tests and exercises to help pinpoint issues • For couples, singles, and families, men and women • Coleman is an expert with an active practice and specialty in intimacy issues who’s made appearances on Oprah, Today, and Geraldo

This book turns our search for intimacy on its head, suggesting that our way to creativity in love may be through idiocy. The book takes its readers on a journey through the work of Plato and Melanie Klein in theorizing the dynamics of intimacy while exploring some of the paradoxical aspects of love in works by Fyodor Dostoevsky and French filmmaker Catherine Breillat. Revisiting core concepts of how we think about relationships, the book lays out a model for relational breakdown—the idiot lovecycle—in which we are constantly in the flux between seeing ourselves and seeing the other. Effecting close readings of literary, philosophical, and psychoanalytical sources, the book draws on parallels between these fields of inquiry while tracing their shared intellectual genealogy, suggesting that the tension between Narcissus and Cassandra, with its inherent conflicts, is also the space through which love emerges from intimacy.

Reveals secrets for maintaining a good relationship, with tips on keeping the passion alive, coping with barriers, recognizing a bad relationship, and knowing when to call it quits

Bringing together 17 articles by renowned scholars from around the globe, this volume offers a multi-dimensional view of comparative and world literature. Drawing on the scope of these scholars’ collective intellects and insights, it connects disparate research contexts to illuminate the multi-dimensional views of related areas as we step into the third decade of the 21st century. The book will be of particular interest to scholars working in comparative literary and cultural studies and to readers interested in the future of literary studies in a cross-culturized world.

In a world of Mr. Right Nows, a guide to Mr. Right . . . Chock full of solid advice, this guide for women offers exercises to help the reader learn more about herself. She then uses that information to recognize mates with compatible qualities. In it are the five myths about Mr. Right, the seven deadly sins that women make while dating, how to spot Mr. Wrong, where to meet Mr. Right, dating DOs and DON'Ts, and much more. • From the editors of John Gray's MarsVenus.com and relationship editors of SingleMindedWomen.com

Simple steps to connecting with others. Now readers can raise their social intelligence quotient with a little self-knowledge and practice. Beginning with a series of short quizzes that generate a personal social profile, this guide explains how readers can enhance their ability to create and sustain mutually enriching relationships, make friends, and build a rich social network. • “Social intelligence” is the new buzz word in the psychology of relationships. • Includes social personality quizzes. • Hot, new self-help topic. • Author Gregory Korgeski, PhD, has more than 30 years of experience as a licensed psychologist.