Deliberately eye-catching, this book asks the reader to consider and reconsider his attitudes and assumptions about gay sex and safety in gay sex. It has loads of explicit pictures of men having sex in different ways. Throughout the book the emphasis is on consent and consensus, which serves to affirm a non-judgmental view of sexual practises right across the sexual spectrum. Anything goes, as long as you and your partner(s) discuss and contemplate each others needs and desires, whilst always being aware of the very real risk of HIV infection. Every possible way of contracting HIV and other transmittable infection are examined and every means of prevention is explored.
What caught my attention is that this book seeks to direct the reader towards the delights and pleasures of intimacy and sensuality and away from the view that penetration is the ultimate aim of sexual satisfaction.
On a broader level, this book constantly stretches the line between the erotic and pornographic. Explicit glamorised material, as well as humour are used to get the safe sex message across, though sometimes the right-on language can become annoying.
Judging by the language, the book is probably aimed at 18-25 year-olds, although there is a wealth of information here that can educate and inform us all. In some ways, the book goes beyond its aim of providing safe sex information, and acts as a guide and advisor on gay life in general, with the occasional hint of lecturing. I was left wondering whether the all-encompassing liberal attitude towards sex adopted in the book empowers us as gay men, or serves to reinforce our victimisation.
That said, Safer Sexy does much to de-mystify gay sex and provide practical and straightforward advice. Its emphasis on communication and mutual consent are by far its most important messages.
Jub
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