Over the course of the novel, Connie transitions from attempting to be content with a purely intellectual life toward accepting that she needs physical pleasure in order to be fully alive. From a young age, Connie grows up immersed in intellectual debates and exchanges, “not the least daunted by either art or ideal politics” (3). When Connie and Clifford first begin a relationship, they find connection more through the exchange of ideas than through sexual chemistry, and Connie secretly feels happy that their “intimacy was deeper, more personal than [sex]” (10). After Clifford’s injuries, there is no possibility of a sexual relationship between the couple; all of Clifford’s enjoyment comes from writing, reading, and having intellectual debates with Connie and his friends. Connie initially finds satisfaction in this life and believes it will be adequate.

However, as time passes, Connie finds herself wondering if there is more to life than mere words and ideas. She notices that the men who surround her are somewhat unattractive, and observes that they have “cold minds” (35). Later, Connie realizes that she cannot imagine one man she would like to have a child with, reflecting that “there was not a man who did not rouse her contempt” (65).