Summary

In "Flesh," Charles arrived late to dance class. He watched some of the younger dancers stretch. He knew that no matter how much he tried he "was never going to be a beautiful dancer" (60).

The instructor "was Farnland," an older man with a nefarious reputation (61). It was difficult to know what to believe. The dance world was built on rumor "and innuendo" (61).

As the class began, Charles noticed Sophie's absence. He felt "relief and also distress" (62). They agreed they could sleep with whomever they liked, but Charles did not feel like talking honestly about Lionel.

Meanwhile, Farnland insulted and ridiculed Charles for his form and bad odor. His body was sore. His foot and knee hurt. He had been injured before. He had not realized the significance of the injury "until years later" (66).

Charles observed two dancers, Mats...