Leatherfolk: Radical Sex, People, Politics, and Practice

by Mark Thompson

Overview

Since its publication, this Lambda Literary Award-nominated book has become a classic must-read on the shelf of books addressing human sexuality and identity. Widely cited as among the most useful books of its kind, Leatherfolk is both historical witness and provocative treatise regarding a distinct subculture that has withstood decades of political harassment and other challenges to its survival.

Spanning the decades from the 1940s onward, this collection of vibrant writing documents the many eras and shifts of attitude that have affected the gay and lesbian leather underground, and its influence on the society beyond.

Product Details

ISBN-13:	9781881943204
Publisher:	Daedalus Publishing
Publication date:	06/01/2004
Edition description:	3rd Revised ed.
Pages:	360
Product dimensions:	5.00(w) x 8.00(h) x 1.00(d)
Age Range:	18 Years

About the Author

Mark Thompson

Editorial Reviews

"'Leatherfolk' is probably the finest book ever published on leathersex history and philosophy. Fascinating, comprehensivve, informative, and sexy." — International Leatherman

"Leatherfolk" reveals a side of leather and S/M as no book before- its heart and soul. — Lambda Book Report

"...draws on parts of the psyche we are taught to regard as taboo, (and) can release powerful energies..." — London Gay Times

"A groundbreaking anthology... this first non-fiction, co-gender collection to document the queer leather scene is an instant classic." — The San Francisco Review of Books

"Probably our first glimpse of the neo-tribal, fusion-oriented fourth phase of a cultural revolution that began in 1960." — Fakir Musafar, Body Play and Modern Primitives Quarterly

"Thompson is able to demystify S/M's darker elements without draining any of the thrilling erotic quality from the subject." — Frontiers

From the Publisher

A celebration of consensual sadomasochism, this collecton of 28 essays mostly by practitioners of both sexes argues that ``leathersex'' heals wounds, mends shame, aids psychological growth and provides the basis for expanded spiritual awareness. With its photographs of ostensibly violent acts that many would consider repellent and its graphic accounts of ``leatherfolk'' practices, this is not a book for everyone. Selections explore coming out, the meaning of black leather, bondage and Nazi paraphernalia. Goddess worshippers, a self-professed shaman and androgynes who employ sadomasochistic rites discuss their practices. Also included are a recollection of a 1949 interview with Alfred Kinsey, an appreciation of agitprop poster artist Chuck Arnett and a reminiscence of San Francisco's Catacombs club. Thompson is senior editor of the gay magazine Advocate . (Nov.)

Publishers Weekly - Publisher's Weekly