"Part of the lesbian consciousness is an absolute recognition of the erotic within our lives and, taking that a step further, dealing with the erotic not only in sexual terms"

This quote by Audre Lorde talks to the value of acknowledging and accepting the erotic in our lives. By "sexual", Lorde is referring to the power of love and desire, and the capacity for pleasure and delight that comes with it. She is suggesting that lesbian consciousness should not only recognize the sensual, however also welcome it in all aspects of life, not just in terms of sexual relationships. This suggests that lesbian awareness needs to acknowledge the power of love and desire in all elements of life, including in relationships with friends, household, and even in our relationship with ourselves. It is important to acknowledge the power of the sexual in our lives, and to utilize it to develop significant and satisfying relationships. Lorde's quote encourages us to embrace the power of the sensual in our lives, and to utilize it to develop meaningful and satisfying relationships.