What does it mean to give yourself completely and honestly? Today we start our three-part close reading of the work and life of Laure (also known as Colette Peignot)—masochist, poet, revolutionary, and the only female member of the secret society Acéphale—dying in Bataille's home at the age of thirty-five as the forgotten author of many of the best ideas he is known for. We begin by exploring Laure's origins, including the horrific abuse she suffered by a Catholic priest as a little girl, and her drive to live a "true life" away from the suffocating phoniness and consecrated harm of the Family and the Church and into a life of transgression. Don't fear, the Insolent Saint of the Chasm tells us—"few know by turning away, you will find the salt of life." CW: child abuse Sources: "Laure: The Collected Writings" by Laure, with contributions by Georges Bataille and others If you like our show and would like to help out, sharing the show with your friends and rating us/leaving a comment! Get access to full bonus episodes, an exclusive RSS feed, and more by subscribing our Patreon! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.