The second volume of Aurélia Aurita’s autobiographical Fraise et Chocolat continues the story of Chenda and Frédéric, but the mood gradually changes. The exhilaration of a new sexual relationship remains, and sex continues to be an important part of their shared life, but the first volume’s sense of discovery increasingly gives way to questions of attachment, jealousy, insecurity, and the difficulties of sustaining intimacy.

The world surrounding the couple also becomes more prominent. Friends and acquaintances enter the narrative, including the Japanese artist Kan Takahama, while cultural differences, a racist neighbour, and the uncertain future of Chenda’s life in Japan introduce pressures from outside the relationship. The intensely private world established in the first volume becomes more complicated as everyday reality begins to intrude.

Chenda herself is increasingly vulnerable. Her sexual confidence and curiosity remain intact, but are tinged with anxiety and a growing fear of losing the relationship that has become central to her life. Sex therefore acquires a subtly different meaning, still playful and pleasurable, but increasingly connected with trust, reassurance and emotional dependence.

Fraise et Chocolat 2 is less concerned with the discovery of sexual pleasure than with what happens after that discovery, when lovers have to negotiate the uncertainties of an actual relationship.

We have included here the first forty or so pages of Fraise et Chocolat 2 – buy the book for the whole story.

Fraise et Chocolat 2 is published by Les Impressions Nouvelles, Paris, who also published a combined ‘intégrale’ edition containing both volumes.