This is Why We Met: A Poetry Collection on Dating, Friends With Benefits & Sex Workers (The Ugly Glory)

“Don’t be afraid. Don’t be ashamed. Don’t ever apologize for your sexuality. Just be you.” — Sonya Deville

Embark on a daring exploration of human sexuality through a thought-provoking collection of poems that unflinchingly navigates the intricate tapestry of intimate experiences. These verses provide candid insights into the complex realm of our sexual lives.

The poems affirm the enduring essence of our humanity lies in the act of sex, celebrated regardless of differences in race, religion, sexual orientation or whether it is for love, friendship or money. Moving beyond physical pleasure, the poems underscore the role of sex in overall well-being, from stress reduction to the release of oxytocin—the "love drug." They propose that sharing past sexual experiences with new partners can be both liberating and arousing. When delving into the realm of pornography, the poems explore the interplay between digital fantasies and real-life insecurities in an era dominated by image-centric social media.

At its core, the collection fearlessly explores diverse sexual experiences, from hook-up apps to friends with benefits via sex workers, all the time acknowledging the blurred lines between passion and restraint. Bold and unapologetic, these verses invite reflection on the true essence of humanity—our desires, experiences and the embrace of the intricate facets of our sexual selves.