Hey, Ford, I think we're agreed again!!
Submitted by Forgiven on February 25 2001 04:24:44
In reply to Viewing pictures submitted by Ford Prefect on February 24 2001 09:24:55
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Yes, I think it is crucially a issue of motivation. The art critics do often claim that oil paintings of nudes are about the beauty of the people portrayed, not simply an issue of titilation. I struggle with that; as someone with no sexual appreciation of women whatsoever, I look at these pictures and nothing of beauty whatsoever. But that may be personal rather than because they aren't beautiful. I went through a period of looking at pictures on the net; for the most part it was for sexual arousal, but at times there was an element that was appealing to a desire for a real, non sexual, relationship with the boy portrayed. I've stopped looking now - somehow the draw has ceased, possibly because there are more positive, non sexual, relationships in my life that provide affection that I need to survive; but it wasn't an easy struggle to win. In that context I am sceptical that looking at such material is helpful - it is likely to be a reflection of a dreaming after what is not, rather than living with what is, and making the best of that. |
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