Chapter 1 Summary and Analysis

The authors begin by explaining that while SM may not be for everyone, it exists because the practitioners of the art have a love of fantasy. They further explain that those involved in SM are regular individuals who simply have different tastes in sexual scenarios. Molly, a maker of whips, describes her role as the submissive individual in SM. Philip, on the other hand, explains that he is dominant. The authors then note the inaccurate image of the SM dominant as an evil sadist and the SM subordinate as a cringing slave, explaining that in reality, most are considerate, kind, compassionate, and tender. Further, the authors note that in any relationship, one individual is usually in charge while the other is subordinate, and note that SM individuals simply take that role slightly farther.

SM, according to Philip and Molly, places one...