In 1992, weary of essays, Ms. Sontag published "The Volcano Lover," her first novel in 25 years.

"The Volcano Lover" is a surprise.

"The Volcano Lover," despite a few nods of acknowledgment toward post-modernist self-awareness, is a big, old-fashioned broth of a book.

She achieved late popular success as a best-selling novelist with The Volcano Lover (1992).

He is the character in "The Volcano Lover" who seems to hold center stage in Ms. Sontag's own heart.

"The Volcano Lover," however, is not simply a collector's cabinet designed to show off its author's erudition or wit.

"The Volcano Lover" anatomizes immense varieties of passionate engagement.

I ask her again about her notion that "The Volcano Lover" is a turning point.

The Volcano Lover is a 1992 novel by Susan Sontag.

Ms. Sontag is shown, on "The Volcano Lover," stretched out on her back.