Episode 9: Objet Petit a and the Nature of Desire | The William Gomes Podcast

28 Jan 2026

In Episode 9 of The William Gomes Podcast, William Gomes offers a thoughtful and accessible exploration of one of the most intriguing ideas in psychoanalytic theory. Drawing on the work of Jacques Lacan, the episode centres on objet petit a, the subtle and often misunderstood concept that names the cause of desire rather than its fulfilment.

Rather than treating the idea as an abstract theory, William brings it into conversation with ordinary emotional life. Desire is presented not as a problem to be solved or satisfied, but as a structural feature of being human. Objet petit a refers to the intangible pull behind attraction, ambition, creativity and longing. It is the quiet engine that keeps desire alive, even when its objects change.

Desire, Meaning and Everyday Life

The episode reflects on how this elusive spark shapes relationships and self understanding. William considers why desire often persists even when we attain what we thought we wanted, and why disappointment can arise not from failure, but from misunderstanding what desire is doing. By approaching the topic gently and without technical jargon, the episode invites listeners to rethink their assumptions about fulfilment and lack.

There is also space given to creativity and emotional life. Desire is explored as something that animates thought and expression, rather than something that needs to be controlled or extinguished. In this sense, the episode aligns with the wider ethos of The William Gomes Podcast, which creates room for reflection rather than instruction, and understanding rather than answers.

A Podcast for Thoughtful Listening

The William Gomes Podcast is known for its calm and reflective engagement with psychology, philosophy and lived experience. Episode 9 continues this approach, offering a considered introduction to Lacanian thought without simplification or spectacle. It is an episode suited to listeners who value depth, patience and intellectual honesty, whether they are familiar with psychoanalysis or encountering these ideas for the first time.

William Gomes is a freelance journalist and human rights activist
Amazon | Twitter | Facebook | Linkedin. More William Gomes, a British-Bangladeshi from York, North Yorkshire, UK, is a prominent anti-racism campaigner and advocate for the rights of displaced people in the United Kingdom. He actively engages in speaking out against racism both locally and nationally.

Throughout his career, William has contributed to various publications such as The Huffington Post, Open Democracy, The Tablet, The Big Issue, The Yorkshire Post, Yorkshire Bylines, Counter Currents, and Counterpunch. He has also held positions with an international human rights organisation and an Italian news agency. Previously, he focused on addressing human rights violations in Bangladesh, including torture, extrajudicial killings, and enforced disappearances. William diligently collaborates with numerous human rights organisations to raise public awareness of global human rights violations, advocate for justice, and hold perpetrators accountable.

Currently, William is pursuing his doctorate at the University of Essex. He holds a Bachelor of Arts in Counselling, Coaching, and Mentoring from York St. John University and a Postgraduate Certificate in Counselling. Additionally, he earned a Master's degree in Refugee Care, jointly offered by the University of Essex and The Tavistock and Portman NHS Foundation Trust. His academic achievements and experience underscore his commitment to social justice and advocacy.Column: William Gomes

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