The Ginger Man, Published by Olympia Press (see previous posts) in 1955 by Irish-American Novelist/Playwright Mr JP Dunleavy.
This story revolves around the main character, Sebastian Dangerfield. A so called loveable rogue who lives off the generosity of others whilst bending their inherent passive nature to his own will. Sebastian is the quintessential "hanger-on" or "user" abusing his long-suffering wife, friends and extended family for their uses of money, accommodation and sex. As a student, (I use this term very loosely because although one has enrolled in Trinity College Dublin, I'm assuming one must frequent the establishment for the purpose of study to be entitled to call oneself, a student) the education Mr Dangerfield embarks upon is that of Ale-taster in the various public houses within the barony of Dublin City and pursuer of woman for the purpose of.........company.
However, the eroticism of this book is contained not only within the descriptive activities of Sebastian but also in the profanity of the Narrator when supplying his opinion of the various character traits of the individuals unfortunate enough to encounter Mr Dangerfield on his escapades.
This is a brilliant read for those interested in Erotica of the mid-twentieth century although in my opinion the books success at the time was equally due to the erotic content and legal bickering (between author and publisher) that followed it's publication.
JP Dunleavy still resides in Ireland and has a list of works to his name but none have had notoriety close to that of The Ginger Man.
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