Mainstream Voyeurism

One of my earliest memories was from when I was seven years old. My rebellious neighbour knocked on my door and proceeded to tell me that he had found his father’s Playboy magazine. 

Everyone in the complex was going to go into the ravine and take a peek at the not-so-well-hidden nudie mag. We all gathered around to look at the female body personified.

It was then, I believe, that I started to get my kicks from stealing glances from things that were meant to be kept hidden behind closed doors.

Two decades later, things have not changed. In fact, the concept of ‘watching’ has increased tenfold. We live in a visually driven world, and quite frankly, that will not change one iota. It is my belief that we are to embrace this culture of voyeurism and use it to our advantage.

I remember having friends in college gripe about how they had the misfortune of hearing roommates indulge in personal sexy time, with or without a partner. Or the time when the neighbours didn’t quite close the blinds as tight as they should. Let’s not forget about the days when you would stay up late at night to watch the almost laughable late night movies on City television.

Now into my twenties, these memories of adolescent viewing have actually served me well. It appears I am not the only one. A famous sitcom featured an episode whereby the television suffered a glitch that allowed an adult channel to broadcast 24/7. A blockbuster movie about two pals who make a skin flick to pay the rent became main stream. Websites with clip formats just to catch pornography highlights are rampant. This is a whole new way of looking at sex, pun intended. Quite frankly, this is a gift for anyone looking to enhance their love life.

Visual elements make sex that much more exciting. It is now not uncommon to watch porn with your mate, with yourself, and even with an audience. We have become so accepting of what was once considered so taboo. Of course, anything that borders on cruel, inhumane or otherwise wrong, should be ruled out. You will never catch me interested in anything that promotes insolence or disrespect.

What I am promoting is a cheeky way to enjoy all levels of sexual exploration. Fantasia events, sassy bachelorette parties and even a casual browse in a smut shop should be encouraged.

Celebrities have become a staple for such activities. Something to promote? Release some pictures. Out of the spotlight too long? Accidentally leak a sex tape. We have become so sexually aware that it is almost old school to shy away from these acts of pseudo rebellion.

It is not necessarily about being a freak; of course there are those who take it to a whole new level. There are those who abandon all personal relationships in favour of watching from a distance.

Intimacy issues, addiction to fantasy and of course infidelity are among the side effects of too much ‘looking.’ What I am suggesting, is using the resources so glaringly obvious to your advantage. Use it to open the lines of communication. Discover new ways to perform old acts. Remember that sexuality can and should be fun.

We have left the era of sheepishly sneaking behind the red velvet curtain in the movie store to get to the goods. We no longer need to gather up the locals to take turns holding the Playboy. We have annual events that celebrate all things adult, including meet and greets with our favourite "actresses."

The time is now, to embrace the world of voyeurism and use it to enhance your love life, whether you keep it a secret or not.