When On Lust was first published in 1993 it caused a media sensation but despite being accused of writing lies that a pillar of society had molested children, d'Alpuget refused to speak in her own defence. The essay ended in a mystery that she can now reveal. It remains a piece of work that continues to fascinate.

On Longing caused a similar sensation, for different reasons. Both studies trace the timeless themes of the power and powerlessness inherent to lust, love, loss and death.