The Joy of Sex Gets a Timely Makeover
The Timeless Guide to Lovemaking is Revised to Remain Relevant
When it first hit bookshelves in 1972, The Joy of Sex was one of the only mainstream books to address sexual issues with frankness and respectability. It made subjects that at first glance might seem taboo, appear commonplace. In fact, it addressed a wide variety of sexual topics with a reassuring and normalizing approach that made the book especially popular among those who may not have had anything like it in their bedrooms before.
A Complete Overhaul of Content in 2008's Joy of Sex
With the book's endearing 37 year publishing run, why the need to revamp the intimacy manual de jour? While the book has had its fair share of tweaks and adjustments during its lengthy lifespan, it has also accumulated a lot of content that is either not politically correct or just plain outdated.
With the help of a new author, Alex Comfort, the 2008 version is made over from cover-to-cover. The removal of such questionable terms as "one legged" women and a sexual position previously known as "the Negresse" has given the latest version a much needed politically correct feel that is sure to keep heterosexual readers appeased.
Sadly though, the updated version skims over its homosexual audience. Besides offering up pro-homosexual undertones, the book neglects what could be a huge chunk of its potential readership. Here's hoping that the next revision takes this oversight into consideration.
The Joy of Sex in the New Millennium
The content in general is also a testament to the new millennium. Topics like pornography, AIDS and Viagra all have their place in this restyled edition.
A facet of the modern revision that can't be overlooked is the shift in perceptions of what is genuinely sexy. Long gone are the chapters on condom-free intercourse, random orgies with strangers and sex on horseback. This modern version is clear about one thing: healthy is sexy. From the importance of being a safe sex partner, to a short section on resources for all kinds of disorders and conditions, this book lets readers know that good sex is healthy and safe.
While the content makeover was needed to keep the book relevant, the question remains just how relevant this version actually is. The reason for the book's initial and endearing success is that it debuted when there was nothing else like it on the shelves of book stores and libraries. Today, sex has become a virtual commodity in and of itself, and there are thousands of books devoted to various sexual topics. What readers flock to when they reach for this book is its trusted history. It has staying power because of its honesty and accuracy of information.
Like the original edition, the revised Joy of Sex aims to address sexual issues in the context of society. Though it has its faults, it does manage to give those looking for a well-rounded breadth of information a reliable and accurate starting out point.
Book Stats:
The Joy of Sex: The Ultimate Revise Edition/The TImeless Guide to Lovemaking by Alex Comfort
ISBN# 0307452034
Crown Publishing 2008
Hardcover, 288 pages
Joy of Sex for the new millennium
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