In his book "Without Stopping," Paul Bowles reflects on his thoughts regarding human sexuality, noting a paradox between societal expectations and personal feelings. He acknowledges the significance of sexual impulses as described by Freud yet finds any overt display of sexuality to be inherently absurd. This leads him to believe that both defecation and sexual acts render humans ridiculous, emphasizing how these natural functions strip away dignity.

Bowles observes that while defecation is a private matter, sexual activity inherently requires the involvement of another person, which amplifies his discomfort. When he shares these sentiments, he often finds that others interpret his serious reflections as mere jokes, highlighting a disconnect between his contemplations and societal norms regarding sexuality. This suggests a broader commentary on societal attitudes toward personal and often taboo topics.