The Orgy Summary

This chapter begins with Allende's memories of the private orgies that her step-father, Tio Ramon, set up for her mother when they were living in Lebanon. Allende remembers him moving furniture into and out of their room, laying down assorted rugs and cushions, preparing cocktails and caviar, and selecting special music. She always imagined what went on in their room, based on what she had secretly read in The Thousand and One Nights that Tio Ramon kept locked up in his room.

The history of orgies is as varied and colorful as that of humankind. Orgies have existed in various forms, from religious holidays to victories at war, both private and public, as escape valves for everyday tensions. Fertility was celebrated in all ancient civilizations. Before overpopulation became a problem, orgies ensured frequent impregnation and the survival of the species.

Roman...