Have you ever been reading a book, having a perfectly good time indulging in a sexy love scene when you hit a word that turns you so off that you actually cringe? I know I have. Even though I write both erotic romance and erotica, I sometimes run into names for body parts that turn my stomach. I think everyone has a line they're not comfortable crossing in that regard. But what turns my stomach might just turn you on -- and vice-versa.
And what about certain sex acts. Most publishers of erotic romance and erotica have a list of taboo activities they don't want to see in submissions because they cross nearly every reader's line. But that leaves a host of other naughty behaviors wide open and many of us enjoy being "bad" to some degree. Unfortunately in our culture, there seems to be more that's considered bad than what's considered good!
Our sexual mores have been influenced by ancient cultures, political movements and religious teachings. The ancient Greeks' ideas about sex centered on penile-vaginal penetration to the point of male orgasm. Too bad for the ladies.
Most Western religions teach that male-female sex within the matrimonial relationship is the only acceptable way to do it. Many governments even dictate what people may or may not do in the privacy of their bedrooms.
As long as the parties involved have a fully consensual relationship and have safe, fulfilling sex, why should it matter to politicians or clergy? Sex is one of the most fulfilling endeavors we humans engage in and it is an important part of our health and happiness. So whatever you call it, just do it!
