:: New Progressive Politics ::

:: Saturday, December 20, 2003 ::

SEX WITHOUT PENETRATION: Some observations about Girl Love, Hip Bisexuality, Erotic Networking & the Sensual Libertarian Movement in NYC

A "Sensual Movement" of erotic libertarianism celebrating girl power and girl love is being fueled by a cadre of female social entrepreneurs, sensual and erotic artistes. From the Burly Q Performance Artists of Williamsburg & the Lower East Side to female owned Erotic themed event companies, Sex as Art is all the rage in New York Nightlife circles. Seemingly everyone fancies themselves as a sensual artiste or expert. Venue owners rather than distancing themselves from "nouveau sensualistes" are quite eager to serve as host venues. Recently opened Crobar is a perfect example of an attempt to meld the performance art aspects of Burlesque with the glitz and glamor and risque attributes of the erotic set.

Sex as Art form is a cultural phenomenon. I was recently introduced by New York's infamous sex kitten Belladonna to Joe Gallant, a musician and AVN Award winning Independent Adult Filmmaker or "pornotreprenuer" who has taught at the Learning Annex and featured in New York Magazine . Joe and I discussed "Sex as Art form" cultural phenomenon. Joe is highly heterosexual and definitely not a member of the he man woman haters club but nevertheless very much also a modern social critic with a unique vantage point of the sexual scene in New York City. "I love women.....and I also like them alot. I respect them, their minds and their formidable hearts so I feel perfectly comfortable calling them on some of their newly agenda'd posturings. But there is alot of Vassar Sex with a Veneer of Hipster Edginess that is all part of this post feminist Pseudo Lesbian Chic.

"The current NYC Sex Events are alot like a Phish Concert. Part of the reason the new "Sexutantes are so VERY eager to be all' bitchin' in nicely-publicized clean upscale environs is due to the likes of $$ex & the City, writers like Amy Sohn (a nice brooklyn girl who fabricates her jaded, men-can't-satisfy-me-though-they-try posturings), the lez-mafia machine at toys in babeland, etc. It says alot about the safely iconic distancing of this era, when virtually every woman of a certain age and societal rank in this matrix-green radar-cooked shark tank we call contemporary culture desperately wants to be seen as a BAD GIRL-----14 year old girls wear "pornstar" rhinestone t-shirts in malls, Britney and ol' Madonna rehearse a corporate-edgy tongue kiss to lay on th' k-mart yokels in TV viewer-land, etc... The current crop of NYC party offerings provide a safe, non-threatening, non-consequential place to get their 5 minutes-of-nipple-lick wings, without fear of it hitting mom & dad's breakfast nook. This collective (entitled? as all louche "sex trend" adherents have been, throughout the ages, never comes from a stridency of spirit, rather from the well-nourished and oh so bored) and latest version of pussy power has its pulsating roots (of course) in media, a reactive (rather than innovative) construct that must prove itself on the very bleeding crest of all movements, seeming or real... What starts out as small like the Grego Loft thing (who is only continuing on a smaller scale the outrageous weekly parties of Neville Chesters (90's porn director) at his midtown loft for the last 10 years) must de facto get "Real Sex" coverage ANON, as field producers fall over themselves to track down that LATEST... "underground"... EDGY... odd, these scenes are never THREATENING."

After spending a year or two observing first hand a genre of the female sponsored and run erotic themed events, his fresh, uniquely male perspective was different. I have to concur with Joe Gallant that modern day New York City is filled with an overabundance of erotic theorists who are creative and talented people that have figured out that the sex industry has room for sex workers who do not actually have sex. Novel concept indeed. Credentials and experience are not required. More often many nouveau sensual artistes rather than having and enjoying real sex privately or working in the sex industry in a true performance capacity and as Joe says, "taking a big hard cock in their ass or mouth like a porno star."

If we accept Joe's premise then it proves but one thing. The sex industry is about the only one not affected by the economic downturn. Arguably, the prolific and exponential growth of erotic themed businesses and sensual art forms is as much a result of otherwise creative and entrepreneurial class of nouveau sensualistes segwaying into this industry because of a lack of employment employment opportunity in other sectors or the urban economy. So of course this new class of sex industry workers needs to rationalize their participation in the industry as art form. Of course, it's not about sex....its about the art of sex. New York Nightlife certainly provides a platform to indulge in unlimited decadence, especially one that combines sex and performance art. The consumer can, however, grow numb from the endless pontification, analysis and promotion of sex as art by self appointed experts and artistes. I almost wish that they would spend more time doing it than discussing it and just shut the fuck up already.

At Joe's invitation, I had the opportunity to meet with him and observe the filming of a porno video in a discrete location in Queens one afternoon. The woman known as Alexa X was clearly there by choice, not even remotely exploited but in fact was fulfilling a fantasy having two men at once, including a first time experience with a Nubian Porn Prince. She seemed to be enjoying the experience so much that the action had to be stopped and she had to be prompted somewhat into acting mode (e.g., "i love that big black cock"..."fuck me harder" etc etc. ) rather than just grunting through her orgasms. It was clear to the naked eye that she was enjoying the experience alot more than the men who seemed to have to really work to maintain their heightened level of arousal and bloodflow to their prodigous endowments, without the necessity of a blood transfusion.

In fairness, the female empowerment/choice undercurrent does give the movement a somewhat spiritual and political or component because it creatively fosters the notion of women as healthy sexual beings while removing the simplistic labels of slut or nympho often associated with women who require a regular and diverse feeding of sexuality. Noteably, it makes sex more palatable on an intellectual and rationale level to the masses. But there is certainly a business and networking component as well.

These "Erotic Networking Parties" are where couples and largely single bisexual women can meet other like minded people without having to take random chances on Village Voice, Craigslist or Nerve personal ads, a good chunk of which are actually run on a syndicated Spring Street Networks platform. You have the erotic event organizer as a love or sex broker of sorts, whether it is Onelegupnyc, FlirtNYC, CAKE or Skin Party etc "Artisfying" their events to give them a sexy female oriented vibe. So let me see if you wear a mask, play with another couple or get fucked by two men at the same time...its now an art form but not a swing party or about sex?

As one would imagine there is plenty of cross pollination of people who go tour all the different events looking for that perfect couple or gal, but there is also some inherent postulating as to who has the hippest, most upscale erotic events in NYC. Right now for example, it may not be the "most hip" because their is no "face" of FlirtNYC, but I would have to say that FlirtNYC on some level is continually attracting the most affluent of the sensual and erotic crowd and clearly the most open to the bisexual community.

The success and exclusivity of of FLIRT stems from the fact that the privacy of those involved and participating is a little bit more guarded with FLIRT than with say CAKE (which has sort of become the "McDonald's" of the Erotic themed businesses and the easiest to gain access to for the masses) or Onelegupnyc which is on some level a promotional vehicle for the Goddess Artiste known as Palagia who is the face of Onelegupnyc. You also have Gregos-NYC who is known for his discrete and private invitation only after parties at his Brooklyn loft.

The privacy aspect is critical perhaps because of FLIRT'S clientele which is clearly quite affluent, urban as well as suburban. That much I can verify. You may see your doctor, lawyer or newscaster at one of these events. There is also an underground Eyes Wide Shut network of sensualists who also happen to be movers and shakers in the business and professional community throughout the northeast corridor. Share your wife and make a business contact right?

An undercurrent of competition exists between those who are vying to be perceived as the "High Priestess of New York Sensual & Erotic Life." But I certainly would not call it a "cat fight." Who deserves that title anyway? Is it the manicured & tailored to be palatable to the Upper East & West Side Madison Avenueized "Pussy Power" espoused by the likes of self annointed Goddesses like Mama Gena (who ironically is not quite so popular with a number of women have worked with her and moved on, see "Mama See Ya, It's mutiny among the Sister Goddesses at Mama Gena's School of Womanly Arts" ), Palagia or ....some of Dominatrices sich as Mistress Evita and Troy Morgan On some level the BDSM community was in the sensual performance art business first. The BDSM crowd which is not about "sex" but rather role play, styling and performance etc. BDSM is just not as socially acceptable or everyone's cup of tea. It is alot easier for people to admit they want an extra girl in the bedroom than admit and embrace that they want to be whipped, flogged or humiliated by a domineering alpha goddess. As has been well documented, BDSM and the work or art of a dominatrix does not involve actual sex and in most cases not even actual nudity but is the original erotic performance art without penetration. The dominance and submission lifestyle is largely a voyage of the mind with specific fetish imagery, much like a fashion show. The Baroness is a perfect example of this. This is not sex but rather role play, styling and performance art etc.

Artsifying the "sensual libertarian movement" certainly makes it more hip and palatable to a wider audience and takes away focus from the fact that these events are primarily on some level offline, "Swingers Networking Events." None of the upscale sensual or erotic themed event businesss want that label associated with their business because it demystifies it and perhaps afixes a 1960's Bob, Carol, Ted & Alice label to their movement. I think what is most uncomfortable about that label is that prior swing movements were more about the male gaining access to permitted extracurricular sex in the context of a married or committed relationship or persuading his woman to explore her bisexual side. The present one is more about the female choosing to explore her bisexual side as well as gaining permissible bi and hetrosexual liasons in the context of a semi committed relationship. Men go along for the ride because there are some significant incidental benefits to be derived from being in a relationship with a woman who is evolved, in control of and enjoying her sexuality. On the other hand ask a friend of mine who's wife left him for a woman when she realized she preferred intimacy with a female to a man and maybe some men might not be so quick to embrace this free lifestyle. Perhaps its an acceptance of the simple fact that women generally are capable of more frequent, constant, sexual exchanges than are men. Perhaps it is artistic and spirtual because this movement contributes on some level to an erosion of Victorian era value judgements and double standards about women as sexual beings which on some level remain even today.

By bringing an artistic flavor to the female erotic libertarian movement it may make it easier to cast the net wider, gain greater access to and acceptability by a greater percentage of the population who do not necessarily see themselves as swingers but rather as merely sexually liberated or enlightened. Afterall, that is how many people would like to have themselves perceived.

An observation, however, is that why the double standards within the "movement"? The emphasis is on increasing choice, reducing judgment and eliminating double standards thereby providing a supportive forum for women to celebrate their status as sexual beings as well as more freedom to celebrate pleasure. Thus then why the mixed messages, judgment and morality plays against those who are a bit more sexual and less artistic with their sex? Why if there is sex, swinging, and partner exchanging are these aspects played down when it is a huge focus of what is transpiring at these events? Further, why the relative distinctions between "Sensualists" "Nouveau Sensual Artistes" or "Performance Artists" and those in the erotic world, porno or BDSM biz. If that model is truly premised on female empowerment via these "artforms" then why all the value judgments. Swingings, female burlesque revue, BDSM, Porn etc are all a form of sensual or erotic libertarianism? Everyone has a different comfort level with each. That is all fine and good but why the value judgments by the propietors of one art form or a certain aspect of erotic libertarianism vs. another or highlighting how their art form is more pure and otherwise attempt to draw distinctions between their events and others?

Why all the distinctions and disclaimers about the specific sexual elements, including affirmative statements that the events are not a "swingers" event etc. Why cowering from the label. How does Palagia say with a straight face that its not about sex when behind her on HBO's Real Sex a woman is being taken from both ends by different men? Isn't it quite similar to the way Strippers judged Porno Stars or even High Class Escorts before Porno stars became headliners at their clubs? It subsequently chic and perhaps even economically necessary for strippers to dabble in Porno if it meant headlining at a club vs. being a line stripper. So let me see if you wear a mask and get fucked by two men at the same time...its now an art form? Give me a break.

Ask, Joe Gallant who says, "As long as its not "fucking" and female run etc it is sex guised as female performance art but once real fucking is going on or a man is running the show....then for some reason it is no longer art." Ironic that a movement premised on eradicating double standards would employ one as well. The simple reality is more people are having more sex with a variety of people and just not calling it that.

Moreover, in the heterosexual community, this whole bi or bi curious with an edge girl thing seems a bit contrived in many cases. Most of those women are not but aside from playing into the male fantasy and titilating their partners or potential partners its also a way to be perceived as hip and open minded about sex. Girl love is frankly....very cool, for lack of a better phrase, these days.. Further, experimentation does not even get you annointed with the label "bi." Some women have told me that they have had sexual relations with gay or truly bisexual women only to be told...honey, you are straight. My question, if you are female is at what point eating another woman's pussy, massaging or kissing her breasts etc do you actually become bi curious or bisexual? Inquiring minds want to know. It seems for women, you actually have to work at being considered bisexual. On the other hands, if a male does or even contemplates doing so...the label homosexual immediately attaches itself.

My sense is that truly gay or bisexual women are more likely to be regularly found at Gloss Parties at Meow Mix than at a Onelegupnyc Party or some of the other Erotic Event Planning businesses that have risen to capture the energy of this largely heterosexual phenomenon. On the other hand, I do think that there is a large percentage of women in committed relationships who just want sex with someone else other than their spouse or significant other.....and frankly its not as emasculating or threatening to the man for the woman to come home and say "honey, can we play with another girl" rather than, "gee some of your guy pals look cute and well endowed, could you bring them home for them to have an orgy or gang bang with me." Its as if many women have figured out how to circumvent and make an end run around the rules of engagement in committed relationships to get extracurricular sex while not risking or undermining the security of their existing relationships. These female run event models provide the perfect forum for doing so.

Then again, as Dennis Miller says...I could be wrong.

:: Christopher London 4:47 PM [+] ::
...

THE POLITICS OF SENSUALITY (Republished)
and the "Goddess" who took Manhattan

SYBILLICATION: sen·su·al

ADJECTIVE: 1. Relating to or affecting any of the senses or a sense organ; sensory. 2a. Of, relating to, given to, or providing gratification of the physical and especially the sexual appetites. See synonyms at sensuous. b. Suggesting sexuality; voluptuous. c. Physical rather than spiritual or intellectual. d. Lacking in moral or spiritual interests; worldly.
\Sen"su*al\, a. [L. sensualis, from sensus sense: cf. F. sensuel.] 1. Pertaining to, consisting in, or affecting, the sense, or bodily organs of perception; relating to, or concerning, the body, in distinction from the spirit.

sen·su·ous adj.
Of, relating to, or derived from the senses.
Appealing to or gratifying the senses.

Readily affected through the senses.
Highly appreciative of the pleasures of sensation.
These adjectives mean of, given to, or furnishing satisfaction of the senses. Sensuous usually applies to the senses involved in aesthetic enjoyment, as of art or music: “The sensuous joy from all things fair/His strenuous bent of soul repressed” (John Greenleaf Whittier). Sensual more often applies to the physical senses or appetites, particularly those associated with sexual pleasure: “Of music Dr. Johnson used to say that it was the only sensual pleasure without vice” (William Seward).

Sensual has always signified beauty, an indulgence of the human spirit and sensitivity; a sensory appreciation for the asthetic beauty in life, people, art, culture and yes...sex. It is a positive word. But as one of my female comedianne friends has stated, we live in a society that is somewhat uncomfortable with sexuality per se. On one hand we use sensual images to sell things which are inherently NOT sexy and downplay the sex appeal of that which is inherently sensual and perhaps even erotic. Sensuality in Art is always controversial, even when it comes to romance. See
Sensual Romance, Erotica or Porn

All dictionaries agree that the first definition of ‘sensual’ relates to the senses or bodily sense organs. Some then proceed to secondary usages of the word: “suggesting sexuality; voluptuousness”; “physical rather than spiritual or intellectual”; “carnal; fleshly”; “connected with sexual pleasure”; lacking in moral or spiritual interests; worldly. In so doing, are they misconstruing the beauty of the word? Has patriarchy and discomfort with things sensual caused some to distort and make that which is beautiful pornographic?

It became relevant to ponder when I decided to launch the idea of a Sensual Libertarian Network, including Onelegupnyc, FlirtNYC, Shamanta & others (Sensual For Charity.com) which would raise funds for New York City based charities serving the needs of those in transition and distress. The mission of Sensual For Charity is to harness the soul, creativity and philanthropic spirit of the Sensual Movement in New York City to support critical & timely NYC based charitable needs. I caught some flack and static because the concept was perceived by some as an endorsement of an alternative lifestyle rather than a profound appreciation for the spirit of generosity that exists within the artistic community.

These are odd times for sure. More troubling for me is that present circumstances in life preclude me from being as generous to those in my life as I would prefer. Throughout my life my passion has always been about the Pleasure of giving more so than receiving whether it is my community at large, friends and family as well as in matters romantic or professional networking. Being in a position of receiving and taking is not one that is most comfortable nor does it come natural to me. Nevertheless, it is this loving art that I put forth through the London Network. But I do know that some others feel that way as well. Ironically enough many of my friends in the Arts & Sensual Movement are among the most affected by a recessionary/depressionary economy but yet they have such a great love for humanity that despite whatever challenges they currently face, they want to find a way to assist others. Philanthropy when and until it hurts is true Philanthropy. You know it comes from the heart when it may be easier to withdraw and focus on ones own dramas in life.

GODDESS PALAGIA

Unlike some who perhaps theorize that Sensuality is devoid of humanism (see: Humanism) I beg to differ. We are all God's creatures. This brings me to my friend, Goddess Palagia, Co-founder of Onelegupnyc. Goddess Palagia is a compassionate, sensual, intellectual, alpha female goddess beauty who understands that politics and sexuality are interwoven. To those of who who don't know her, in my mind, she is truly The Goddess Who is Taking Manhattan. No offense to any of the other goddesses in my universe or yours....but she is certainly beloved and carving a swath across unchartered terrain.

Palagia is at the forefront of a Sensual Movement that is shaped by reality, common sense and human nature. Whether you agree with Palagia or not, she is an elegant, sophisticated and articulate representative of a movement that is about creating greater capacity of love, desire and fulfillment through exploration and non-exploitative enlightenment that allows us to embrace rather than being threatened by our sexuality. Onelegupnyc is a voyage of the heart, mind and spirit; one that liberates your soul and frees you to love and care without judgment or guilt. Onelegupnyc and their unique themed gatherings,provide a loving and warm enviornment, allowing allow women to "change the rules" and explore their freedom without being judged,scrutinized, or emasculating or disempowering men.

The liberation and freedom of a bold, confident, secure women who embraces her sexuality may bear the judgment of the less informed and enlightened. But, be certain in the fact that Palagia and Onelegupnyc is no threat to your lifestyle or the values you embrace. Even though we live in the Era of the Alpha Female Goddess, remnants of a patriarchal society still exist. While many may find titillation (see The Observer, New York, new hedonists & Soft Core in the Big Apple) in the adventurous aspect of an emboldened woman, we may not always be prepared to embrace that which we may on some level feel threatened by.

Instead some focus on assigning simplistic and outdated labels like slut, deviant, perverted etc (not that there is anything wrong with that), to a movement that is both sensual and political. What critics have missed or otherwise glossed over in merely highlighting the voyueristic delights to titillate the reader is that the brand of sensuality espoused by Palagia is empowering and liberating to women while also contributing to greater fulfillment of women and men. If we dare to relinquish control and refrain from judgment, ultimately we shall all be more free as a result. Men may ultimately find that they have alot more to gain rather than lose through the empowerment of a truly independent female class. It is inevitable anyway. The irony is that many still feel more comfortable with conventional notions of femininity espoused by the likes of "Sex and the City" than those that really challenge us like Palagia, Mama Gena & Elizabeth Wurtzel (Author of "Bitch, In Praise of Difficult Women" & "Prozac Nation") See also "Transactional Romance & Evolution of the Feminine Ideal"
Lest their be no doubt that a growing cross section of urban society and culture is becoming increasingly taken with Palagia. Palagia is a phenomenon, online and offline, not just because she is provocative and sexy, which she is, but more because she is incredibly intelligent, worldly, sophisticated and can carry on a dialoque with anyone, about nearly anything...if of course you have the capacity and aptitude to converse efficiently with a sexy woman who could eat you for lunch intellectually if you are not up to par. More people can identify with a "real woman" like Palagia than the post modern angst of vapid pseudo angst ridden Sarah Jessica Parker (Carrie Bradshaw), which is an embarrassment and a setback to the advancement of women. The "Real Sex and the City" was actually better represented by a show called Single in the City on Manhattan Cable which starred the now infamous"Barracudas", including Donna Barnes from Naked New York. While Palagia is incredibly comfortable with her sexuality, she does not seek or demand converts to an alternative lifestyle but rather instead for us to to embrace diversity and to infuse life and embrace all of god's living creatures with the love and sensuality that you offer your partners. Similarly, FlirtNYC is also much more about providing women with safe, comfortable and supportive environment and network to exercise their freedom without judgment. It is too simple to merely refer to this as a sex party, it as every bit political and enhances womens lives. Moreover the people in my circle involved in the Sensual Movement are loving souls, humanitarians and quite philanthropic, defined far more by what they do outside the bedroom in every other aspect of their lives, whether it be loving and supporting friends and family or being Sensual For Charity.

Palagia's sensuality transcends matters of the sexual. I have come to value highly the spirit of generosity inherent in her persona as one of the few bright spots in an otherwise difficult and challenging year. Art is Sensual and being Sensual Is an Art.

Andecdote of the day:
1)The sensual woman wants to be touched.
2) She wants to be heard
3) and most of all she wants to be loved.

:: Christopher London 7:40 AM [+] ::
...

WHY KOBE DID IT

If that title strikes you as over the top, out of line or a rush to accuse a man wrongly for a crime he is only suspected of committing than consider the conviction that society has already been bestowed on his accuser. Our system of justice relies on the principle of innocent until proven guilty. That principle should apply equally to the accused as it does to the accuser.

There has been a rush from all corners of the misogynist world to label Kobe Bryant's accuser a psycho, a slut, psychiatrically unstable, a groupie etc. Why? Because she either had consensual or non consensual sexual relations with a married man who if nothing else has illustrated a wanton disregard for common sense ( I am told that happens when you have a hard on) and perhaps even more behavior of a sexual predator. Yes a sexual predator preying on the naiveté of a teenager who may have at worst been wide eyed and impressed by his celebrity. Kudos to the folks at SaveMartha.com for exposing the real outrage...a second social rape of the victims soul by society. Even so there are some who believe that Kobe Did It and see beyond Team Kobe's attempt to frame the accuser as a wanton slut who consented to rape.

How surprising that some meat head web sites have popped up proclaiming Kobe’s innocence and that we should “Free Kobe.” Kobe is free….but this victim will never be as a result of this prosecution. The stench of this occurrence will likely last a life time. As if having a 3 plus foot vertical leap, the ability to do a 360 degree reverse slam dunk while also being able to hit the three from behind the arc somehow shields you from the ability to commit a heinous crime.

Actually, quite the opposite; the lesson of OJ Simpson is if you’re a famous black athlete you can walk away with blood on your shoes and the blood and skin of your victims under your finger nails and even further if your crime is committed against a white woman, you can automatically invoke the “society is racist” mantra in order to evoke sympathy and get your community behind you. The irony is that you do not even represent your community because many black men who are not famous accused of such crimes wrongfully or rightfully often rot in jail for a lifetime. They do not share your angst or I should say you do not share theirs.

Kobe’s privileged background, skills and lifestyle have perhaps provided him with a similar arrogance of OJ Simpson. All he need do is invoke his celebrity, good guy image, buy off his wife with a $4 million dollar diamond ring and beg forgiveness, stir up racial undertones and get a more powerful coalition behind him including a vast cross section of the black population that buys into his victim-hood and the meat head frat boy jock set who see Kobe as one of their own.

Hey, they should know…right, sometimes girls get drunk at frat parties and when they do…silence or slight resistance means yes. Yes, they can relate, all women want to get fucked and all women want to get fucked by famous athletes and stars. Yeah, maybe that’s true and maybe she even flirted with him and dreamed she might garner his attention….but if she said no, regardless or how starry eyed she was then Kobe had no right whatsoever to assault her and place his penis anywhere near her.

Make no mistake the Kobe enterprise impacts the economy and livelihood of many Americans who cannot afford to experience his demise from agents, to corporations and marketing and PR people. The Public Relations war has begun in earnest…how could Good Citizen Kobe have ever committed such a crime. We shall hear how the wheels of the prosecution are on his tail but lest there be no doubt whatever prosecution they can mount with limited societal resources will not compare with the multi-million dollar campaign that Kobe and company will assault the air waves with in the coming weeks and months, from lawyers, consultants galore. As one prudent commentator has noted, "American culture, with its idolization of the rich and famous, will afford Kobe Bryant extra protection against charges of sexual assault."


As the weeks and months go by it will be interesting to see how long the Kobe enterprise coalition holds together. Will it hold together should the evidence of guilt become over powering or will his wife get on television several more times proclaiming his innocence and her love for him. Until now Vanessa has stood by her man, but should it become necessary to do more, will she and others step up and join the Kobe brigade in denouncing the little whore who dared challenge Kobe. Perhaps we should just brand her with a Scarlet Letter? Oh I forgot, Kobe was the adulterous one….but instead of a Scarlet A we can brand her with A Scarlet “P” for psycho or “S” for slut or “W” for whore. Lest their be no doubt there is in earnest an orchestrated campaign to discredit and indict Kobe's accuser as being a low class, psychotic slutty party girl who somehow......yes...deserved what she got. You may want to think twice before you go waiving the "Free Kobe" banner. In my estimation that makes us all complictors in a second rape of this young woman.

:: Christopher London 8:35 AM [+] ::
...

THE POLITICS OF SENSUALITY
and the "Goddess" who took Manhattan

SYBILLICATION: sen·su·al

ADJECTIVE: 1. Relating to or affecting any of the senses or a sense organ; sensory. 2a. Of, relating to, given to, or providing gratification of the physical and especially the sexual appetites. See synonyms at sensuous. b. Suggesting sexuality; voluptuous. c. Physical rather than spiritual or intellectual. d. Lacking in moral or spiritual interests; worldly.
\Sen"su*al\, a. [L. sensualis, from sensus sense: cf. F. sensuel.] 1. Pertaining to, consisting in, or affecting, the sense, or bodily organs of perception; relating to, or concerning, the body, in distinction from the spirit.

sen·su·ous adj.
Of, relating to, or derived from the senses.
Appealing to or gratifying the senses.

Readily affected through the senses.
Highly appreciative of the pleasures of sensation.
These adjectives mean of, given to, or furnishing satisfaction of the senses. Sensuous usually applies to the senses involved in aesthetic enjoyment, as of art or music: “The sensuous joy from all things fair/His strenuous bent of soul repressed” (John Greenleaf Whittier). Sensual more often applies to the physical senses or appetites, particularly those associated with sexual pleasure: “Of music Dr. Johnson used to say that it was the only sensual pleasure without vice” (William Seward).

Sensual has always signified beauty, an indulgence of the human spirit and sensitivity; a sensory appreciation for the asthetic beauty in life, people, art, culture and yes...sex. It is a positive word. But as one of my female comedianne friends has stated, we live in a society that is somewhat uncomfortable with sexuality per se. On one hand we use sensual images to sell things which are inherently NOT sexy and downplay the sex appeal of that which is inherently sensual and perhaps even erotic. Sensuality in Art is always controversial, even when it comes to romance. See
Sensual Romance, Erotica or Porn

All dictionaries agree that the first definition of ‘sensual’ relates to the senses or bodily sense organs. Some then proceed to secondary usages of the word: “suggesting sexuality; voluptuousness”; “physical rather than spiritual or intellectual”; “carnal; fleshly”; “connected with sexual pleasure”; lacking in moral or spiritual interests; worldly. In so doing, are they misconstruing the beauty of the word? Has patriarchy and discomfort with things sensual caused some to distort and make that which is beautiful pornographic?

It became relevant to ponder when I decided to launch Sensual For Charity.com. The mission of Sensual For Charity is to harness the soul, creativity and philanthropic spirit of the Sensual Movement in New York City to support critical & timely NYC based charitable needs. I caught some flack and static because the concept was perceived by some as an endorsement of an alternative lifestyle rather than a profound appreciation for the spirit of generosity that exists within the artistic community.

These are odd times for sure. More troubling for me is that present circumstances in life preclude me from being as generous to those in my life as I would prefer. Throughout my life my passion has always been about the Pleasure of giving more so than receiving whether it is my community at large, friends and family as well as in matters romantic or professional networking. Being in a position of receiving and taking is not one that is most comfortable nor does it come natural to me. Nevertheless, it is this loving art that I put forth through the London Network. But I do know that some others feel that way as well. Ironically enough many of my friends in the Arts & Sensual Movement are among the most affected by a recessionary/depressionary economy but yet they have such a great love for humanity that despite whatever challenges they currently face, they want to find a way to assist others. Philanthropy when and until it hurts is true Philanthropy. You know it comes from the heart when it may be easier to withdraw and focus on ones own dramas in life.

GODDESS PALAGIA

Unlike some who perhaps theorize that Sensuality is devoid of humanism (see: Humanism) I beg to differ. We are all God's creatures. This brings me to my friend, Goddess Palagia, Co-founder of Onelegupnyc. Goddess Palagia is a compassionate, sensual, intellectual, alpha female goddess beauty who understands that politics and sexuality are interwoven. To those of who who don't know her, in my mind, she is truly The Goddess Who is Taking Manhattan. No offense to any of the other goddesses in my universe or yours....but she is certainly beloved and carving a swath across unchartered terrain.

Palagia is at the forefront of a Sensual Movement that is shaped by reality, common sense and human nature. Whether you agree with Palagia or not, she is an elegant, sophisticated and articulate representative of a movement that is about creating greater capacity of love, desire and fulfillment through exploration and non-exploitative enlightenment that allows us to embrace rather than being threatened by our sexuality. Onelegupnyc is a voyage of the heart, mind and spirit; one that liberates your soul and frees you to love and care without judgment or guilt. Onelegupnyc and their unique themed gatherings,provide a loving and warm enviornment, allowing allow women to "change the rules" and explore their freedom without being judged,scrutinized, or emasculating or disempowering men.

The liberation and freedom of a bold, confident, secure women who embraces her sexuality may bear the judgment of the less informed and enlightened. But, be certain in the fact that Palagia and Onelegupnyc is no threat to your lifestyle or the values you embrace. Even though we live in the Era of the Alpha Female Goddess, remnants of a patriarchal society still exist. While many may find titillation (see The Observer, New York, new hedonists & Soft Core in the Big Apple) in the adventurous aspect of an emboldened woman, we may not always be prepared to embrace that which we may on some level feel threatened by.

Instead some focus on assigning simplistic and outdated labels like slut, deviant, perverted etc (not that there is anything wrong with that), to a movement that is both sensual and political. What critics have missed or otherwise glossed over in merely highlighting the voyueristic delights to titillate the reader is that the brand of sensuality espoused by Palagia is empowering and liberating to women while also contributing to greater fulfillment of women and men. If we dare to relinquish control and refrain from judgment, ultimately we shall all be more free as a result. Men may ultimately find that they have alot more to gain rather than lose through the empowerment of a truly independent female class. It is inevitable anyway. The irony is that many still feel more comfortable with conventional notions of femininity espoused by the likes of "Sex and the City" than those that really challenge us like Palagia, Mama Gena & Elizabeth Wurtzel (Author of "Bitch, In Praise of Difficult Women" & "Prozac Nation") See also "Transactional Romance & Evolution of the Feminine Ideal"

Lest their be no doubt that a growing cross section of urban society and culture is becoming increasingly taken with Palagia. Palagia is a phenomenon, online and offline, not just because she is provocative and sexy, which she is, but more because she is incredibly intelligent, worldly, sophisticated and can carry on a dialoque with anyone, about nearly anything...if of course you have the capacity and aptitude to converse efficiently with a sexy woman who could eat you for lunch intellectually if you are not up to par. More people can identify with a "real woman" like Palagia than the post modern angst of vapid pseudo angst ridden Sarah Jessica Parker (Carrie Bradshaw), which is an embarrassment and a setback to the advancement of women. The "Real Sex and the City" was actually better represented by a show called Single in the City on Manhattan Cable which starred the now infamous"Barracudas", including Donna Barnes from Naked New York. While Palagia is incredibly comfortable with her sexuality, she does not seek or demand converts to an alternative lifestyle but rather instead for us to to embrace diversity and to infuse life and embrace all of god's living creatures with the love and sensuality that you offer your partners. Similarly, FlirtNYC is also much more about providing women with safe, comfortable and supportive environment and network to exercise their freedom without judgment. It is too simple to merely refer to this as a sex party, it as every bit political and enhances womens lives. Moreover the people in my circle involved in the Sensual Movement are loving souls, humanitarians and quite philanthropic, defined far more by what they do outside the bedroom in every other aspect of their lives, whether it be loving and supporting friends and family or being Sensual For Charity.

Palagia's sensuality transcends matters of the sexual. I have come to value highly the spirit of generosity inherent in her persona as one of the few bright spots in an otherwise difficult and challenging year. Art is Sensual and being Sensual Is an Art.

Andecdote of the day:
1)The sensual woman wants to be touched.
2) She wants to be heard
3) and most of all she wants to be loved.
:: Christopher London 6:58 PM [+] ::
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"I am a right wing Libertarian, passionate about the maintenence of our culture, from the "liberal" onslaught of perceived fair play. While this is definitely a time for peace, love and understanding, it is also a time to fight for the values, freedom and democracy that we have created. I choose to never forget 9/11 and those who died…simply because they were American or working in America. That does not make me intolerant…it makes me rational and sane.”
:: Christopher London 4:47 PM [+] ::
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FREEDOMGASM:"Iraqi's Gone Wild", George B. as Snoop Doggie Dog & The Return of The Three Stooges

Freedom is an orgasm. Think of the endorphins running through your bloodstream after an amazing run, a first kiss with someone you fall in love with, making love with that goddess or god you have lusted, craved or desired or yes even closing that big deal, buying your first home or driving your first new car. It's pretty intense and pleasureable. Is it not? In the movie Pumping Iron Arnold Schwarzengger equated the endorphins from his workout "pump" with that of being in a constant state of ecstacy because he felt like he was always "cumming."

Well imagine having your every move and thought process stifled for years, family and friends tortured, maimed and slaughtered for even appearing to provide dissent to an existing regime. Then magically one day, tanks and infantry of young, fresh faced Americans roll into town providing you with food, water and cover from the tyranny of oppression. Your expression and the essence of your very soul erupts and the energy cascades throughout a population. To many they look like "Iraqi's Gone Wild." In fact, many in the Arab world, once again think that this is some American Propaganda show and distrust what they are witnessing. Think again baby, Freedom unleashed is contagious; it's dangerous for the simple reason that once you taste it you will not want to relinguish it. Look what happened during Glastnost. Do you thing any Russian really wants to go back to an era pre Gorbachev? Take off that Burka and come join the Freedom Party American style.

America, our President, and our politics are far from perfect but more often than not they are righteous. That is for sure. Show me another place on this planet where young men are willing to die to liberate and provide others, foreigners no less, with the simple comfort that perhaps many Americans take for granted. The freedom to wake up, grab a Starbucks, go to work and meet up with friends for some libations and maybe more. So put Onelegup for Uncle Sam baby. Just because the spread of freedom, democracy and freedom happens to benefit the American way does not necessarily make us hypocrites. To the liberators go the spoils of liberation. Hopefully the Iraqi people will remember that France, Russia & Germany, primary beneficiaries of the rogue regime in Baghdad were all too content to appease "Saddam Hussein" (So Dam Insane). They were wrong and slow to recognize the rise of Adolf Hitler and they were wrong again.

The word from Central Command is that the WAR is clearly not over but "victory" is seemingly close at hand, through a war funded by the blood of U.S. & British soldiers and the "alliance of the willing." Ironically enough, the Three Stooges (France, Germany & Russia, aka Moe, Larry & Curly) gathered once again to discuss their plans for a Post War Iraq, after previously opposing and undermining the United States in the United Nations by Saying that there was No Need For War. The Chutzpah!!

So to my leftist friends who condemn the United States as an Imperialist Nation and think of their European counterparts as being more evolved, sensitive with a greater perspective of culture and history, give me one good reason not to believe that the biggest "whores" of humanity reside dead center at the heart of the European Union. These are countries which grew fat and happy on contracts with a despotic dictator and had no regard for the plight of the Iraqi people. Does the world need to be reminded that these three countries and their leaders all thought that it was better for the people of Iraq to remain ruled by their oppressor?

Germany builds the bunkers, France has the best oil contracts and Russia, well they just helped spy for their neighbor Iraq to undermine U.S. influence and its War on Terror. These are the same folks who keep pushing Israel to sit down and just negotiate in good faith with terrorists. Has Europe learned nothing from WW II and the Holocaust? Actually, what I think that they have learned is that they would like to do all they can to eliminate the relevance of the United States of America and Israel from the world stage so that they can more effectively spread their Eurocentric view of the world.

Despite the plans of France, Germany & Russia, I think that it is critical that the United States and Britain not be played for fools by these pragmatic opportunists who have unfortunately a short memory. I prefer a vision incorporating the Bush Doctrine for a Post War Iraq. The Heritage Foundation is also making an enlightened case for a Post War Iraq.

The stability of the Middle East and Iraq specifically are legitimate concerns. The land know as Iraq has undergone 4,000 Years of Strife. In fact, noted author of "The Reckoning" Sandra Mackey has begged the question Iraq: Could a future without Saddam be Even Worse? I think it certainly might unless the United States sticks firm to a vision of utilizing the country's resources to build the Iraqi infrastructure and a society free of oppression in Iraq. Otherwise, the lions at the gates have but one interest, to expolit that region to the detriment of its people. The United States can and must win the peace but not by brokering up piece meal Iraq to the Three Stooges. We are certainly not altruists but the Iraqi people have alot more to gain with the assistance of an American vision than they do of a European/Russian one.
:: Christopher London 11:45 AM [+] ::
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Freedom Fighters: Urban Republicans & Onelegupnyc

In light of numerous rants on a range of subjects from politics, sex, romance, dating, life in NYC, over the last few years in my London Network Newsletters & NYC Consigliere Blog, I have often been asked...what is your political ideology? Chris, are you a Democrat or Republican? Are you pro-war or anti-war? How can you be in favor of "peace" and be so supportive of the military effort in Iraq? In a label conscious society, I well understand this preoccupation. Simple labels do not define me nor do they define many other introspective and enlightened intellectuals. While it may not be clear to many as it should be, I consider myself truly Progressive in the most literal sense. If it liberates the freedom of the human spirit in any fashion, whether it be entrepreneurial, political, sensual, creative etc...I am supportive of it.

To be truly progressive is difficult; especially for those who are at the forefront of taking on established or entrenched political thought. One has more to lose by bucking the tide and taking on view points which many inherently deem in conflict with one another because they do not clearly fall within the left-right paradigm. In so doing you risk alienating both those on the left and the right. It is far easier in fact to align yourself within the parameters of established thought or philosophy on the left or the right. In my estimation those on the left and especially those in the Democratic Party are all too often associated with being liberal and progressive when the present day reality is the furthest thing from the truth. How liberal and progressive does it make you if all you espouse is the same old defeated leftist ideology to the challenging problems of our time? That makes you dogmatic and not progressive. Socialism, Communism and Left-ism have been proved by history to be profound failures, which suffocate the human spirit. If you see no logical or rational basis or circumstance for defense of our shores get real. You have to stand for more than juts opposing a President that you have issues with. Further, to regurgitate failed ideology is not only retarded but it is not progressive at all. Those of you who call yourself Liberals and consider yourself "enlightened"....take notice that what you offer is "dogma" and not exactly liberal, open minded or progressive in its most literal sense. Perhaps at one point your views could be considered so and the label you so proudly wore applied. Conservatives also take notice. It was a mistake to demonize the word "liberal" for short term gain. In fact, the creative, pragamtic and solution oriented policies which profess a return to some core conservative/libertarian ideals are actually incredibly progressive. These days the party more closely symbolizing the fight for the rational and reasoned "middle" is the GOP cultivated under Giuliani, with a few exceptions. A warning to those on the left and the right: Please take notice that "political correctness" whether it comes from the left or the right has the effect of stifling dissent or disagreement, inhibiting the freedom of speech and is thus, equally damaging to the liberation of the human spirit. Critiquing dissent is acceptable. Silencing it is never acceptable. The marketplace of ideas will better allow truth to emerge.

Life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness are core ideals. The best judges in fact of the actual breadth of our freedom are those who challenge it by pursuing the exercise of their freedom to the greatest degree, whether socially, sensually or creatively with provocative forms of speech. If their conduct, behavior or speech does not threaten or cause others harm but the exercise of that freedom is nevertheless impinged on, that is the point, however distasteful you may find it, that you must stand up for their rights. While it may be politically expedient to inhibit certain speech, doing so ends up undermining the basis of our culture and liberation of the human spirit.

I have had the good fortune of encountering a few people who despite extraordinary challenges from both sides of the spectrum forge on even when the wisdom and truth of their message does not yet ring true to the masses. This week I want to highlight two such individuals. One is Robert Hornak, founder of the Urban Republican Platform and Palagia, founder of Onelegupnyc. These two people are from two completely different aspects of NYC life, one sensual and one political, but they have one significant thing in common. They are innovators and not imitators. They do not follow but rather challenge conventional thinking on the left and the right. In fact, it is not clear that either of them would necessarily wish to be associated with the other. Except that I am a huge fan of both. Why?

I am a fan of innovative entrepreneurial men and women with vision who are not afraid to take chances and lay themselves on the line. The fact is that we live in a sensual and political world. As a Scorpio at least I do. After food and water, the aspect of life that rules my thought process is the political as well as sensual. The truth and liberation in their movements is not yet as obvious to many as it will come to be in future years. Robert and Palagia are at the forefront of a New Progressive movement that is shaped by reality, common sense and human nature. "This is about what we want to become. It is also about what we fear we might become. It is about what we fear and is often what we desire."---Palagia
To liberate the masses government must remove itself from our bedrooms, our paychecks as well as our social lives. If I want someone to wear a strap on, I will ask Palagia and not our State or Federal government. Inherent in the Urban Republican movement of Robert and the Sensual Movement headed by Palagia is common sense liberation of the human spirit. I shall continue to embrace those who seek to provide us with greater freedom. So I am in favor of peace but support this war and the military aims of our government because I see it as necessary for the long term security of our country, the free world and this planet. I am an American Nationalist but have profound respect that our country is a melting pot of the best that the world has to offer. We live in an imperfect society...but until the day that someone can show me one more perfect, I shall work with those towards making the American experience the best one that has been bestowed on humanity in history.



:: Christopher London 9:59 PM [+] ::
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