Story of O by Pauline Reage Summary and Reviews
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Book Reviews of Story of O
Book Review: Come down off of your BDSM and erotic soapbox.
Summary: 5 Stars
It seems many of these readers are into BDSM or looking to get off. (If that's what your looking for go to thehun.net and save yourself some time) I was just looking to read a good book, and was neither of the above. It's a great book, intense none the less, but entertaining and stimulating. Don't look too deep into and you won't be able to get up until you've finished. I know I kept wanting to sneak a peak at the last chapter to find out where it was headed. I must say I was slightly disappointed with the end, but I appreciate why it was written as such. Don't look into it, enjoy it.
M
Book Review: Consider.
Summary: 3 Stars
First of all, the Story of O should not be your introduction to BDSM (or anything of that nature) if you've suspected that you might interested. It is far wiser to consult a psych. text book. The book itself contains a rough sketch of the submissive and masochistic that, while interesting from a historical perspective, does not give insights to the reason behind her behavior and thoughts. If you know nothing of power complexes and sadomasochism in sexual relationships, be advised that this book is very biased and from an uninformed source (due to its age).
I understand the context of the book and such, but it seemed superficial in that O's Masters did not seem to have truly earned her submission. I do not mind the ending, however. The life of a masochist often resembles that of a moth flying into the light and it is that last pain that can deliver the greatest force and gratification.
Though quite capable of empathizing with O's emotionally masochistic tendencies, I must note that the way one "is" says nothing about the way one can be. The discovery and exploration of oneself does not inevitably lead to indulging in one's desires. It is highly unlikely that we are born sadomasochistic and it is not impossible to stop being such if we choose to change.
I am not suggesting that it is "bad" to be sadomasochistic--far from it, as long as the behavior remains between consenting adults. I merely stress the importance of reflecting upon one's behavior and understanding the reasons behind one's actions, because sadomasochism often manifests itself in non-sexual forms, which one may not notice or consider important until it has caused severe issues such as depression. It is never wise to pursue a lifestyle as a sexual sadist without first having considered one's motives, boundaries, and moral principles. The conscious pursuit of gratification without realistically infringing upon the rights of others, however, is quite within one's liberties.
Book Review: Control & Lust Vs. Equality & Love
Summary: 5 Stars
The images intrigued me. I could not understand her motivation, but I wanted too. Even though I found her a victim, I was attracted to her. I did not want to "rescue" her, but rather to make her mine. O, so willing to be controlled, the question, can love come from freedom no longer required an answer. I chose control & lust from my lack of character and laziness, but I still pine away for equality and love.Book Review: DS Fction vs. DS Relity
Summary: 4 Stars
The Story of O is what many of us started with on our journeys to self-discovery wheather we were Dom or Sub deep within. It is the erotic story of a young Parisian girl whose devotion to her lover leads her into the world of BDSM, sexual, physical and emotional slavery, discipline, love, and ownership by a strong Master. It details her introduction into the alternative sexuality world and describes her education and indoctrination as a slave.
Having said that, this novel is fictional. Let the following be a wake up call to all would be Masters, Mistresses and submissives out there who after reading this book think they are going to just jump into an alt lifestyle. Real time and real world D/S and BDSM do not and never have worked as this novel portrays!!! The lifestyle is far more involved and complicated, takes years of practice, experience, and study!! This novel is an ideal, its purpose is to stimulate the mind (and loins) and push your cerebral interest in BDSM into action. I highly recomend that those interested also read 'Venus in Furs' writen by Masoch. It is a classic novel which describes the mental and emotional pitfals of Masochism and a love so deep it transcends worship. The novel does not contain any sexually explicit situations or erotica which I am sure is disappointing to many:)
Play safe:)
Master Khan.
Book Review: DeGrading
Summary: 1 Stars
I originally purchased the book to read on a plane. I found the entire book poorly written and not at all interesting. It is a perverse look at S & M and slavery, which by the way is no longer legal. It made me embarressed to be a female. I feel sorry for people who enjoy such books, as I thought our generation had at least some intellegence. I found the book overall humiliating and intellectually boring.