Let your desires be turned upside down. Philosopher, literary and political theorist Lauren Berlant explores the attachments we have towards the world and the failed promises that constitute the fantasy of the good life. In their writings, Lauren captures collective dimensions of intimacy, its density and openness. Think of how smoothies, encounters at the liquor store, selfies, yoga and music videos are endless depositories for critical analysis. Characterising the present moment as one of impasse and precarity, Lauren sketches out how to relinquish and reimagine our collective desire. In their conversation with Hans Demeyer for Extra Extra, Lauren ponders intimacy as world-building, affect and ambivalence.