Tag Archives: relationships

Daily Sexy Musings: Vacation Loving

couple-on-beach-800

There’s a reason why summer often goes hand-in-hand with vacation and it’s a damn good reason. The kids are out of school. There aren’t many holidays to plan around. Pools, beaches, and resorts are open. The weather is warm so the need for excess clothing is limited. In terms of having the right conditions, summer has it all.

As I write this, I’m enjoying an overdue vacation. For me, that usually means spending a few days at the beach, soaking in some sun, and hitting up beach bars. In terms of relaxation, it’s the most enjoyable activity I can do with my clothes on. I don’t get to go on vacations very often, but when I do, I try to make them count.

The same holds true for couples. If you’re with someone, be they a spouse or a lover, a vacation is a perfect opportunity to celebrate the full breadth of your love. There’s no work to be done or jobs to worry about. It’s just the two of you, enjoying your time together and all the sexy opportunities that come with it.

I understand that some people are in a better position to enjoy a summer vacation than others. Whatever your situation, I hope everyone gets a chance to get away from it all this summer. We all need to step back and enjoy the sweeter side of life. This Daily Sexy Musing is my way of motivating people and their lovers to do just that. Enjoy!

We’ve done it.

We’ve escaped our daily grind.

We’ve ventured beyond our familiar settings.

At last, we’re on vacation.

This is no longer a time for toil or tedium. Together, we seek both relaxation and reprieve. The world is bigger than our typical works and tasks. There are places to be, lands to explore, and time to enjoy. There are so many places we can go and people we can see. What’s most important is that we’re somewhere that allows our love to roam free.

Maybe it’s a sandy beach on a tropical island.

Maybe it’s the deck of a cruise ship in the middle of the ocean.

Maybe it’s a remote cabin in the woods.

Maybe it’s a snow-covered lodge in the mountains.

Wherever we go, we leave behind our burdens and bring our greatest passions. Getting there is always a struggle, but being there makes it so worthwhile. Whether it’s a long flight, an extended drive, or an exhausting hike, the journey to this special place puts our vacation in just the right context.

To build a life for ourselves takes time, work, and energy. Building one with you takes that and so much more. The rewards are many, but opportunities to appreciate them can be rare and elusive. A good vacation is a great opportunity. We have no excuses or hindrances. For a brief period, we can just exhale and savor the fruits of our efforts.

On a sunny beach, every kiss is deeper.

In a secluded cabin, every touch is softer.

Within a cozy lodge, every gesture is hotter.

Every setting becomes romantic and every act of love becomes passionate.

This is what we wanted, needed, and craved. At last, we get away from it all. Every moment becomes precious and every feeling becomes a treasured memory. Together, we indulge and celebrate. Others may envy us. It doesn’t matter. We’re on vacation.

Leave a comment

Filed under Daily Sexy Musings

Daily Sexy Musing: Cooking and Sexy Chefs

sexy-chef

A nice, romantic meal has plenty of sex appeal. Most people don’t deny that. It’s the foundation of many quality dates that often result in memorable lovemaking. I certainly appreciate it, but there’s also something to be said about the act of cooking itself. I strongly believe that too can have a unique bit of sex appeal.

Now, I’m somewhat bias when I say this because cooking is kind of a big deal in my family. My father is a great cook. My mother is a great cook. Many of my close relatives approach cooking with a passion that you don’t often see outside of a syndicated cooking show. There are more than a few stories about how cooking served as a foundation for a relationship.

Those stories are private and not for me to share. I’ll only note that cooking skills probably played a role in some very memorable nights and for good reason. It’s one thing to have all the right ingredients. Being able to put them together into something delicious takes a mix of skill and talent. When done right, it can be a very sexy combination.

It’s one thing to pay someone else to cook your food. When someone you love cooks it for you, the simple act of sharing a meal gains a more intimate meaning. It helps fill one basic need while acting as a catalyst for another. In terms of overall sex appeal, it’s a perfect two-for-one deal. As such, don’t be surprised if this Daily Sexy Musing makes you both hungry and horny. Enjoy!

The water is boiling.

The ingredients are mixed.

The meat is searing.

The oven is hot.

Everywhere around you, there is a growing heat. It’s a tasty heat, one that lingers with every breath I take. I can taste your labor from afar, but they are just samples of the feast to come. Watching you, my hunger grows. However, that is not the only need I seek to sate.

Before, there was just a collection of food and ingredients. On their own, they were nothing more than food. In your hands, they become something more. With the right preparation and care, it becomes more than just a meal. It stands as a work of art, albeit one we consume. For once, my stomach, my heart, and my loins all conspire to spark my desire.

You mix it all together.

You present it in perfect proportions.

You serve it and yourself in a single dish.

The heat from the kitchen follows us to the table. From the first bite to the last, I taste your amorous effort. It’s as though you injected your passion for me in every scrap. Like the rarest spice mixed in with the rarest fruits, I savor every last morsel. Every sound I make echoes with my loving approval.

As you look at me, I let you know that I am fed. However, I am not satisfied. Even after my stomach is full, there are other appetites that have not yet quenched. To do so requires a different kind of heat, but you need not worry.

You cooked the perfect meal.

I shall serve the perfect desert.

Leave a comment

Filed under Daily Sexy Musings

Daily Sexy Musing: Sexy Daydreaming

Closeup portrait of a Happy young beautiful woman relaxing at ho

We all daydream. Life can be tedious, boring, and uneventful for extended periods. Anyone who has ever had to wait in line at the DMV can attest to that. It’s an inescapable aspect of life and, being the adaptive creatures we are, daydreaming is a common way to get through it. I would even argue it’s universal.

When done right, it can be good for you. There’s even some science to back that up. When it gets sexy, though, things can get complicated and not always in a bad way. For an aspiring erotica/romance writer like me, I often treat sexy daydreaming as typical brainstorming. More than one of my stories has come to me while waiting in line at the grocery store.

Being a man, it can get awkward for reasons I’ve shared before. If you’re a man, sexy daydreaming comes with some unique risks. If it’s too sexy, then you’re going to have a problem that will only get worse if you happen to be wearing extra-tight pants. Even if you’re wearing the loosest pants you have, it’s all too easy to get lost in a sexy daydream.

Those risks aside, I believe the rewards are plenty worth it. Whether you’re single, married, or something in between, a little sexy daydreaming can go a long way towards giving you sexy ideas. Since all great feats start as ideas, I believe they’re worth contemplating. I sincerely hope this Daily Sexy Musing will inspire some seamy ideas. If you have some you’d like to share, please do so in the comments.

It’s starts with a thought. Then, desire enters the picture. They start to mingle, exchanging and entwining images and ideas. The end result is the same.

In my mind, my most intimate fantasies become real.

In my mind, I am unbound by restraints and restrictions.

In my mind, I dare to explore the breadth of my passions.

From the outside, there is nothing fanciful about me. I walk through crowded streets, smile at casual acquaintances, and conduct myself like any others. Nobody gives me a second look. I am just living an ordinary, mundane life. It hardly does justice to the extraordinary thoughts racing through my mind.

In that world, I am something greater.

In that world, my desires are within reach.

In that world, my passions are unlimited.

In that world, nothing holds me back.

I can walk down the same street and draw the utmost awe from total strangers. My abilities and talents are superhuman, capable of carrying me to the heavens and beyond. The love and fulfillment I seek is both real and nearby. It comes to me as quickly as I run towards it. When I embrace it, everything comes together.

My heart races.

My skin burns.

My loins reacts.

These thoughts aren’t real, but that doesn’t matter to my body. From these thoughts, my desires become tangible. In these fantasies, I gain a strength that reality denies me. Real or not, they inspire me as much as they arouse me. I now have something to strive for.

Whether it’s possible does not matter.

Whether it’s achievable matters even less.

These are my ideas from my world. Reality may not yield, but I’ll make sure it bends.

Leave a comment

Filed under Daily Sexy Musings

Daily Sexy Musing: Happy Friday Edition

Group Of Golfers Walking Along Fairway Carrying Golf Bags

Greetings and Happy Friday, everybody! I know it’s somewhat inane, especially if you have to work on the weekends. Trust me, I understand that sentiment. For a good chunk of my 20s, I worked at a company that required me to work on Saturdays. That meant anyone who greeted me with a Happy Friday was just rubbing salt in the wound, albeit unknowingly.

I no longer have that job anymore. I’m now in a position where I can appreciate someone who greets me with a Happy Friday. For most people with a regular work schedule, Fridays are among the best days of the week. Whether you’re in school or working, it’s the end of a rigorous work week and the start of the weekend. What’s not to love about that?

Fridays are the days when most people try to go out and have some fun. Sometimes, that fun involves something sexy. A lot of date nights are on Friday. A lot of celebratory lovemaking occurs on Fridays. I lived in a co-ed dorm in college. I remember how active Friday nights were.

It’s still somewhat cliched, treating the end of the week as though it’s a full-blown holiday. However, I think that’s exactly the kind of spirit we need in our lives. We don’t have to reserve that spirit for a few days out of the year. Why can’t we channel some of that passion on a weekly basis? If so, what better day to do so than Fridays?

To those working this weekend, I apologize if this comes off as empty rhetoric. Again, I’ve been there. I know how you feel. To you and those looking to enjoy their Friday, I hope this Daily Sexy Musing helps. Enjoy!

The week is over.

The journey is complete.

The blood, sweat, and toil have ceased.

Friday has come and I’m ready to enjoy it. Like anything, though, it’s easier to appreciate when you have someone to enjoy it with. That’s where you come in.

For five days, we’ve rolled out of bed, worked hard, and earned our keep. Our passions, energy, and focus had to go in many different directions. Few were sexy and even fewer were memorable. Like so many others, we put in the time to do our part. Once again, we followed the rules and paid our dues. Now, it’s time to collect our reward.

Tomorrow, the burdens are lifted.

Tonight, we celebrate as we undo the locks.

The sun goes down and our paths cross. Much of the stress, anxiety, and concern of the past five days. I take you in my arms and you take me in yours. Like a breath of fresh air, it leaves us elevated and energized. I don’t know what I’ll do over the weekend, but I know what I want now.

Being with you, no longer encumbered by thoughts of another early morning, pent up passions come pouring out. We can finally shed the clothes, demeanor, and formalities that have stifled us all week. There’s no need for anything elaborate. We just need each other, our love, and a bed that and support our bodies.

It’s Friday.

We’re home.

We’re together.

That’s all we need.

Leave a comment

Filed under Daily Sexy Musings

Daily Sexy Musing: Being Tough

180205-tough-guy-endurance-41

There are many traits that people find sexy, but only a handful are universal. These special traits transcend race, gender, body type, culture, and even kinks, to some extent. Not many traits check everyone of those boxes, but toughness is definitely one of them. I would even argue it’s one of the best.

Even without its sexual connotations, toughness in a lover has plenty of appeal. I say that as someone who grew up with some tough individuals, many of which are close relatives. A few served in the military. Some overcame some serious hardship against illness, injury, or poverty. Others are just the kind of people you want on your side in a fight.

I know the value of toughness. I also know that it’s not the same as being physically strong or mentally capable. To be tough is to push yourself in ways that go beyond the call of duty. It often requires that we rise above our limits and expectations. That can mean subjecting ourselves to unpleasant experiences in the name of achieving something greater.

That entire concept is something we want in our lovers. Whether it’s protecting us from harm or birthing our children, we want and need our partners to be tough. Love may bring us together, but toughness makes that love stronger. A tough lover can do many amazing things for a relationship, including the things that are clothing optional. I want this Daily Sexy Musing to highlight this. Enjoy!

We endured the hardship.

We fought the obstacles.

We overcame the odds.

We absorbed the blows.

Through each challenge and trial, we feel the sting of strife. At times, it hurts. The pain is real and leaves lingering scars. Sometimes, it’s more subtle. We don’t even feel it, at first. From tasks that strain our minds to feelings that damage our spirits, we are weighted down by many burdens. It hinders our ability to celebrate our love at every turn.

Every step comes with struggle.

Every reward comes with cost.

Every gain comes with loss.

A shallow love has no chance. Like thin ice or brittle glass, it shatters at the slightest disruption. You’re not like that and neither am I. Our hearts and souls are more robust than that. I gladly share your pain, just as you eagerly share mine. It leaves us weaker in the moment, but stronger in the long run.

Together, we harden ourselves, but strengthen our hearts. We’ll navigate the storm, but never feel wet. I’ll take the hit and I’ll do so with a smile. That’s what love like ours can do. Alone, my first instinct is to avoid hardship. With you, I eagerly endure it. In doing so, I articulate my love without a single word.

You get the message, loud and clear. You return the favor, affirming our love and demonstrating your strength. My heart and soul gushes for you. What started with love has become a connection.

That connection is strong.

That connection is deep.

Most importantly, that connection is ours.

Leave a comment

Filed under Daily Sexy Musings

Daily Sexy Musings: Skilled Hands

tumblr_nakbfltsev1r7eta3o1_500

There are many sexy parts of the human body. Some are inherently more sexy than others, but everyone has their preferences when it comes to which parts they admire. I certainly have my favorites. Being a healthy straight male, I think most can surmise which body parts I most admire. However, there are some parts that I feel don’t get the attention or respect they deserves.

Those parts are our hands. I’ll give everyone a second to finish rolling their eyes, but I believe there’s a case to be made for hands being the most under-appreciated tool in our intimate arsenal. Now, I don’t deny that hands aren’t the first body part that gets our attention when we see someone attractive. It might not even be the fifth. However, it’s utility in all things sexy is beyond dispute.

In many cases, our first romantic gesture involves touch. Whether it’s holding hands or heavy petting, we use our hands to convey all sorts of intimacy. Most people know how to caress and fondle. It’s as natural as breathing for thinking, emotional creatures. It only gets really interesting when lovers develop some skill with their hands.

Make no mistake. Skill makes a difference. I know this because I’ve known men and women who use their hands to do more than simply touch. They know exactly where, how, and what intensity to use in conveying their passions. It shows in how they deal with their lovers. They can make another person feel loved and satisfied without saying a word and while keeping their clothes on, no less.

Hands are undeniably useful and deceptively powerful. That special skill can be wielded by men and women alike. It often takes practice and refinement, but it’s definitely worth doing. I hope this Daily Sexy Musing affirms that. Enjoy!

I crack my knuckles.

I focus my mind.

I rub my hands together, creating a warmth I hope to convey.

You stand before me, waiting and eager. There’s so much to say and do. We’ve finally found the time and space to focus only on each other. I want to make it count, but there’s only so much I can put into words. How I feel and what I desire simply defies description.

Thankfully, there are other ways of telling your lover how you feel.

With my hands, I lightly graze your face with my fingers. Then, I trail down your chin and neck, finding those extra-sensitive spots I know so well. You shiver and shudder every step of the way, just as I’d hoped. I don’t have to say anything. I just smile and let my hands do the talking.

These hands can say more than most. Whereas some develop their speaking skills, I chose to refine how I touch and feel my way around my lover. Practice and dedication, combined with trial and error, have made me adept at making every tactile gesture matter. I’ve also made sure you reap the benefits.

Through my touch, I show how much I want you.

Through my touch, I convey how much I love you.

Through my touch, I inspire your greatest passions.

My skilled hands work their magic. You eagerly succumb to my spell. Guided by my hands, I take you in my arms and we follow this new passion. What starts as a simple touch can become so much more. With skilled hands, they can become truly powerful.

Leave a comment

Filed under Daily Sexy Musings

Daily Sexy Musing: Leaving A Mark

2_1438174628

Love leaves a mark. Anyone who has ever been in love knows that. Sometimes, it’s an invisible mark. It’s something that’s etched in your memories, your emotions, and your entire sense of being. You don’t always seek it, but when you find it, you know it’s there.

The same can be said for less romantic forms of passion. By that, I don’t just mean the kinkier side of passion. That’s certainly there and that can definitely leave a unique set of marks. There are times when we just lose ourselves in the moment and wake up with scratch marks we don’t remember getting. They don’t always sting at first, but they too can leave a mark.

They’re among the few tangible manifestations of passion. They can occur in a meaningless one night stand just as often as wedding anniversary. As a romance fan, these moments are among my favorite. They make for some of the most powerful moments in my novels and sexy short stories. When it comes to my personal life, I hope I can leave a mark like that on someone and vice versa.

To date, one of the most memorable marks I ever got from a former girlfriend was a hickey on my neck. I had to hide it under my shirt for a while, but I was genuinely proud of it. Even though she apologized for it, I still didn’t mind. It was actually kind of sweet in its own special way.

Even if you’re not a romance fan, love and lust will find a way to make an impact. That’s what makes it so powerful. Whether it’s etched on your body or within a memory, you’re going to feel it throughout your life. It can be beautiful, bittersweet, and overwhelming. With this Daily Sexy Musing, I hope to capture all of that. Enjoy!

It starts with your lips.

It flows from your hands.

It echoes in your words.

It erupts through your nails.

I sense it in our most intimate moments. When your passion turns to actions, I am at its mercy. I readily subject myself to it. You’re so wild and free. Every gesture becomes a manifestation of our love. When it hits me, it hits hard. Every time I feel it, I want to feel more.

I feel it on my flesh.

I feel it in my mind.

I feel it in my soul.

From the echoes of your gasp, I forge immutable memories. It plays out like a scene from a movie, so graphic and unfiltered. You hold nothing back and neither do you. When you rake your fingers over my body, every nerve ignites with sensation. Some burn more than most, leaving marks that won’t readily heal.

That’s okay. I don’t want them to heal. To love someone is to be vulnerable and being vulnerable means enduring strain. It demonstrates what we’re willing to do for one another. I’ll put myself in your line of fire. You can unleash the full extent of your passion. I can take it. I welcome it.

You accept my invitation.

You unleash the full force of your passion.

You leave your mark.

Now, I intend to leave mine.

Leave a comment

Filed under Daily Sexy Musings

Daily Sexy Musings: Intimate Echoes

CRHW4Y Smiling couple whispering at bar

When I was in college, I lived in a co-ed dorm for two years. It was quite an experience, to say the least. I learned a lot about living on my own, having roommates, and surviving in a crowded building full of unsupervised youths. While most of those lessons are more pragmatic than sexy, there are a few that stand out.

One lesson that I learned early on had to do with the unique noise lovers made while sharing a little passion in between classes. The dorms I stayed in were decent by most standards, but they were far from soundproof. I heard things that probably would’ve incurred hefty fines by the FCC, but the couples involved would’ve paid up gladly.

In that environment, you quickly learn the difference between a moan from someone who had a long day and one from someone getting some special treatment by their lover. You also learn the distinct difference in the laughter, gasps, and grunts that people make during intimate moments. They do not sound like anything you’d make when you stub your toe.

Those noises aren’t just the excessive hissing and seething that go on in typical porno. These noises are more subtle. That’s what makes them so powerful and distinct. They’re not always loud and they don’t have to be. That deeper subtext is part of what makes it so intimate. It’s my sincere hope that this Daily Sexy Musing gives everyone a greater appreciation for that subtext.

A simple kiss.

A soft touch.

A muted reaction.

On the surface, it’s so quiet. Your gasps are barely a whisper. Our swirling lips are easily drowned out. The simple gust of the wind is enough to overshadow every noise we make in our passionate moments. However, we both hear them as clear as a ringing bell. To us, they might as well be blaring sirens.

With each loving gesture, we evoke more reactions. They’re unavoidable, impossible to contain or suppress. Every gasp, giggle, and touch echoes with the slightest of sounds. They’re difficult to hear, but we still listen intently. In them, we learn so much about ourselves and our passions.

Without words, we express our love.

Without tools, we taste our passions.

Without thought, we convey our love.

Without guidance, we navigate our desires.

Together, we ruffle the sheets, dishevel our clothes, and evoke more reactions that travel beyond the walls. In every noise we make, we let the world know of our activities. From the way our skin clashes to the distinct tone of our voices, we leave little doubt to all those who hear us.

These are the noises of our love. Every echo is laced with our passion. When I gasp and grunt, I tell the heavens how much I love you. I take my feelings and turn them into real acts with real impacts. When you touch me, every noise carries greater meaning. In every reaction, I try to match it.

These sounds are the soundtracks.

They are the music of our hearts.

Leave a comment

Filed under Daily Sexy Musings

Daily Sexy Musings: Soldiers and Warriors

a77e8d2f44d4fb63a79c06032b94a05d

There are certain jobs, titles, and roles that will always have some level of sex appeal. I’m not just referring to those directly or indirectly related to prostitution, either. These occupations offer a unique appeal that can be downright primal. Chief among those occupations, both today and throughout human history, are that of soldier and warrior.

That appeal is even greater during holidays like the 4th of July. Even though it’s a celebration of history and patriotism, a big part of that celebration is dedicated to the brave men and women who served in the armed forces. Countries like the United States of America wouldn’t even exist without the dedication and sacrifice of its soldiers.

It takes a special kind of person to fill that role. Not everyone can be trained to fight in combat and even those who can aren’t always proficient. Like gifted athletes or skilled academics, soldiers and warriors have an innate strength to them that goes beyond their muscles. That fighting spirit and commitment to duty is part of their identity and more than a few people find that sexy.

I have relatives who served in the military who can attest to that sex appeal. Some have even told stories about how the uniform alone was enough to get some extra attention. Beyond the military, warriors like the Spartans and superheroes like Wonder Woman reflect the power of our fighting spirit. That spirit is going to attract more than just respect.

In the afterglow of the 4th of July, alongside my immense appreciation for people who put their lives on the line for their country, this Daily Sexy Musing is dedicated to the unique sex appeal of soldiers and warriors. They don’t just keep us safe and look good while doing it. They remind us just how strong and capable we can be. Enjoy!

There’s chaos everywhere.

There’s danger lurking.

There’s an emerging threat.

Everywhere I look, I see a world of conflict. It can be avoided, but only to a point. We can run and hide all we want, but eventually the conflict finds us. Confronting it is rarely easy. At times, it’s so daunting that we tremble in its presence. There’s only so much we can do to fight. In our darkest hour, we feel helpless.

Then, you arrive.

Whether in a uniform emboldened with emblems or within a suit of armor equipped with weapons, you charge into the chaos. Without fear or hesitation, you confront the conflict head-on. You let out a cry of grit and determination that echoes over the carnage. I can only watch in awe.

You swing your sword.

You shoot your guns.

You bloody your knuckles.

You embrace the warrior’s spirit within.

Suddenly, the world feels safer and more secure. I no longer fear the looming threats of conflict and chaos. You’re here and I’m by your side. I see in you the duty and determination to protect others from the horrors of war. I can only begin to comprehend the strength within.

In you, I see an ideal.

In you, I see a principle.

In you, I see the best of what someone can become.

My dread fades. I find myself drawn towards you. The heat of conflict turns into a different kind of heat, but one I readily embrace. With you, I hope to share it. You make me feel so safe. The least I can do is help you feel warm.

Leave a comment

Filed under Daily Sexy Musings

Polygamy Vs. Consensual Non-Monogamy: Is There A Difference?

open-relationships-hero

When it came to dissecting the absurdities of language, nobody did it better than George Carlin. Beyond being one of the funniest comedians of all time, Carlin could break down certain concepts in a way that was as insightful as it was hilarious. His brilliant analysis of what he called “soft language” is more relevant now than it was when he was still performing.

Given the rise of outrage culture, I often wish George were still alive today so that he could tear the absurdities down, as only he could. We can only imagine how he would’ve tackled issues like fake news, alternative facts, and toxic masculinity. At the very least, his legacy of attacking soft language lives on.

In his book, “Parental Advisory,” Carlin defined soft language as terminology people use to help them avoid unpleasant truths. It helps fat people feel better about being “morbidly obese.” It helps poor people feel better about being “economically disadvantaged.” It helps drug addicts feel better about being “substances abusers.”

The face of a man who didn’t buy such bullshit.

Whatever the case, no matter how many colorful words people utilize, the underlying theme is the same. There are certain aspects of reality that bother some people, so they decide to re-frame it in a way that feels less serious and more palatable. It’s rarely overt. There’s rarely an official announcement or anything. Most of the time, it’s just a trend that people forget is absurd.

This leads me to the emerging concept of “consensual non-monogamy.” It’s kind of what it sounds like. It’s a form of a non-monogamous relationship in which both partners grant one another permission to seek sexual or romantic entanglements with others. Sometimes it involves certain rules and boundaries that are openly negotiated. The key is that there is consent and understanding at all levels.

This is not a new idea. If it sounds a lot like polyamory, an idea I’ve touched on before, that’s because it is for the most part. It’s a non-monogamous relationship that people pursue for any number of reasons. It’s actually one of humanity’s oldest forms of relationships and some even argue that it’s more natural than monogamy.

I’m not going to argue how natural or unnatural such practices are, but I think this latest manifestation of soft language requires scrutiny. Like every other kind of soft language, these sorts of linguistic quirks don’t evolve randomly. There’s often a method behind the absurdity and while I’m not as brilliant as Carlin, I have a pretty good idea of why it’s happening.

In terms of definitions, there isn’t that much difference between polyamory and consensual non-monogamy. Logistically, though, there are a few complexities that differentiate the two practices. They’re minor, but relevant to the extent that inspired soft language.

While there hasn’t been much research into consensual non-monogamous couples, the little we do have paints a fairly comprehensive narrative. In these relationships, there is a “primary” partner who holds the role of spouse/lover. This is the partner with which they love and seek to share their lives with. They’re the ones whose names are on emergency contact forms, loan applications, and wills.

Beyond the primary partner are all the girlfriends/boyfriends with which the sexy stuff occurs. The extent and motives behind these encounters are communicated and understood with the primary partner. Every couple is different so the boundaries vary. Some couples have to be together when they’re getting sexy with others. Some are okay with it happening more randomly.

If that sounds a lot like polyamory, then congratulations. You’re starting to understand how George Carlin thought. While polyamory has its own dictionary definition, it’s connotations are not the same as consensual non-monogamy. What people think of when they hear the word “polyamory” conjures different mental images than a term like consensual non-monogamy.

Polyamory, for better or for worse, is one of those terms that has a certain level of linguistic baggage. It’s less associated with the free-spirited couples who get their own reality show and more with outdated traditions associated with polygamous marriages. Think “Big Love” rather than “Friends With Benefits.”

Now, I know I’ll upset those in the polyamorous community for just hinting at that association. For that, I apologize. I know most who identify as polyamorous or consensual non-monogamous don’t like being associated with the kinds of practices that are often associated with horrific crimes. That gets to the heart of where this soft language comes from.

Even if the principles are the same, those sexy free-spirited couples have a valid incentive to set themselves apart from polyamory. It doesn’t matter the disturbing practices of extreme religious cults are only a small subset of polyamorous relationships. They’re distressing enough for most reasonable people.

I dare you to find something more creepy.

As a result, a less broad term emerges. Consensual non-monogamy may have a few extra syllables, but it feels more technical and official. It’s harder to apply to the more distressing aspects of polyamory because it emphasizes consent, a concept that has only become more heated in recent years.

You can’t have child marriages or even arranged marriages of any kind under consensual non-monogamy. It would undermine the whole “consensual” part of the term. In that context, it’s understandable that this kind of term would emerge. There’s nothing in the definition of polyamory that weeds out those negative associations. Rather than actually confront it, soft language acts as a filter.

Given the frequency with which the negative aspects of polygamy still occur, it’s hard to blame those who practice consensual non-monogamy for wanting to set themselves apart. As those relationships become increasingly acceptable, there will be an increasing desire to frame it in a particular way and “consensual non-monogamy” checks all the right boxes.

It emphasizes consent.

It implies choice and personal freedom.

It’s technical, but doesn’t completely undercut the sex appeal.

Even if the definitions aren’t that different, consensual non-monogamy still does just enough to set itself apart from polyamory. In terms of soft language, it adds some critical, but necessary complications to something that is still subject to plenty of taboos. In a perfect world, such a differentiation wouldn’t be necessary. Sadly, that’s not the kind of world we live in.

Sadly, indeed.

I like to think even Carlin would understand that some amount of soft language is necessary. Whether you call it consensual non-monogamy or polyamory, how we think about these ideas are going to affect our attitudes towards it. If consensual non-monogamous couples don’t want to be associated with crackpot religious cults, then they have every right to set themselves apart.

That said, it’s also entirely possible that more soft language will emerge as consensual non-monogamy becomes more mainstream. Love, sex, and relationships are complicated and human beings are uniquely talented at complicating things. Years from now, we may not call it consensual non-monogamy. We may use something along the lines of “mutually non-binding romantic intimacy relationship agreements.”

At that point, hopefully someone will have picked up on the absurdities. George Carlin may no longer be with us, but that doesn’t mean we should tolerate more bullshit in a world that already has too much of it.

Leave a comment

Filed under gender issues, human nature, Marriage and Relationships, polyamory, psychology, romance, sex in society, sexuality