Posted this on Fet because I figured I'd get more comments and conversation there, but wanted to post here as well. And on a side note, I will really try harder to keep this blog updated.
Interesting story on the Today Show, which touches on BDSM a little because of its presence in a very popular new book "Fifty Shades of Grey."
The video is here.
I have not read "Fifty Shades." But I DID read this story when it was a Twilight fanfic called "Master of the Universe." Yes, same author.
As MOTU, as it was known, it was a VERY popular fanfic, and well deserved in the praise it got. EL James is an excellent writer. And yes, it did have some BDSM, but the story was more focused on the relationship between Edward (or "50 Shades" as he was known among fanfic readers, to distinguish which Edward/story was being discussed) and Bella, as well as, WHY Edward needed BDSM. Granted, his journey into it sort of paints those in the lifestyle in a bad light, but eventually Edward and Bella get to a point where it is a good and healthy thing. And I'll admit, it IS one of the handful of stories which made me turned on and curious enough to delve into this lifestyle.
The reaction of those covering the book on the Today Show is what I find interesting. Two of the three person panel, one being Dr. Drew Pinsky, are disturbed by it and think it shows and downward spiral in our society. Only one woman speaks up and says that is creative and healthy and good. Granted, she is also more focused on the fantasizing about it as opposed to the practice, but eh.
Again, I'm intrigued by the reaction of the professionals. While housewives said it spiced up their marriage, professionals seem to be against it. And I'm wondering if the twisted way in which 50 Shades gets involved in the lifestyle is partly to blame for the disturbance, or if they would be disturbed no matter what.
I am a little shock Dr. Drew is disturbed by this. I apparently had a completely different impression of him as being open minded sexually.
What I'm wondering is, who out there has read MOTU or 50 Shades and what are your thoughts on the fanfic story/book and on the Today's Show coverage of the story/book?
