Having heard about this lifestyle (and the books that prompted them) for over a year now, the opportunity to research more deeply and dissect this lifestyle was quite appealing. (Thank you, Master!)
Gorean dynamics are largely based upon the tenets proposed in the Gor series of books, the first of which was written and published by John Norman in 1966, however the dynamics themselves vary, just as is typical of any D/s dynamic. They occur online and off, ranging from role play to full immersion, and are dependent upon how the practitioners interpret the culture. Generally, they can be divided into three main groups - role players, philosophers and lifestylers. These groups contain as much diversity within each as D/s and BDSM contain within their respective areas.
When John Frederick Lange, Jr, a Princeton PhD grad, assumed the pen name of John Norman in 1965, combining his love of philosophy and pulp fiction, and began writing a science-fiction series about a parallel universe centered around a planet called Gor. To-date, he’s written thirty-three books (26 in the Gor series specifically), has a loyal following, and has unintentionally inspired an entire lifestyle loosely (and sometimes more strictly) based upon the principles presented in his series. Everything about Gorean life is described in great detail in his series - everything from botany to social structure, and the influence of Nietsche, Aristotle, and Darwin, among others, is quite evident.
Whilst the books themselves are about the society as a whole, certain concepts have been pulled from them that have specifically influenced those who are in the BDSM lifestyle, whether they choose to practice a Gorean style life or not. Though Norman claims to be uncomfortable with the way his books have been used, his 1974 book Imaginative Sex was the first textbook released in the mainstream that rationalizes domination as part of human sexuality, and was essentially a manual on how to introduce M/s roleplay into the bedroom. Both this textbook and the Gor books appear to be a method for exploring BDSM-type sexual fantasies.
It’s important to understand the content of the books a bit in order to fully comprehend how they have been used in the creation and direction of Gorean dynamics. There is a subculture of Goreans, as I will call them from this point forward, who insist that any deviation from the detailed descriptions of Gorean life in the book would disqualify one from being “Gorean”. There are plenty of others, however, who prefer to pick and choose which portions to incorporate into their dynamics. Sadly, some have even used the Gor series to justify and advance abuses and other nefarious actions (e.g., a “sex cult” leader in Darlington, purportedly following the Gor tenets, was jailed for forcing a woman to have sex with other men, against her will). Thankfully, most are more sincere in their devotion, carefully studying the Gor texts and abiding by the spirit held there.
Generally, any Gorean will include certain elements in their dynamic, most specifically, the relational hierarchy that occurs as a result of Natural Order and is set forth between men and women of Gor - men, the Masters, and women, the submissives, and often, slaves. Slave positions are another common component (and are oft used in BDSM as well). Other inclusions vary significantly from dynamic to dynamic, but can include Home Stones, the concepts of Free People, among other things.
Categories of Earth-bound Gorean Dynamics
Earlier, I mentioned three general groups amongst which Gorean dynamics can be divided. I’d like to look more closely at each and some of the characteristics that are present:
Role playing - at its most basic, Gorean role players pretend to be on Gor, acting out certain roles, as a form of entertainment (though it can include educational aspects as well). Some role players stick closely to the novels, while others take more liberties, incorporating personal preferences into the play. The role playing of slavery often looks much like that in ancient Rome. In the books, slaves were purely chattel and could be killed at the owner’s discretion. Because such treatment is considered barbarous, some may take a kinder approach. Not unlike BDSM dynamics, there is great diversity in the approach participants take to role play. It could focus on the sexual aspects, but could just as easily be all-encompassing or focus on other areas of the novels. Role playing occurs in many different venues - some are in person, some are online in chat groups, and still others occur in the context of other online platforms such as Second Life.
Philosophers - The smallest of the three groups, these Goreans study Gorean philosophy, which is derived from the philosophical principles of the world of Gor as it is delineated throughout the novels. While primarily appearing to be based upon Greek philosophy, and the theories of Plato, Aristotle and Nietsche, and encompassing metaphysics, epistemology, ethics, political philosophy among others subjects, it may be summed up by the principle “Live in Accordance with Nature”. It is said that all other Gorean philosophical principles are derived from this one. Typically, Gorean philosophers study not only the entirety of the Gor texts, but also outside sources in order to fully comprehend the complex philosophical principles presented. One fascinating point is that slavery is not actually part of Gorean philosophy - it is a cultural and social part of Gor, but not a philosophical one. From Gorean philosophy is derived the idea that men are dominant and women are submissive, but the principle does not extend to the point of women being slaves. Do not make the mistake of thinking this group sits around debating Gorean philosophy as the entirety of their involvement in the Gorean life. In fact, like their counterparts in ancient Greece, a true Gorean philosopher will live out the philosophy onto which he or she purports to hold.
Lifestylers - generally, a lifestyler will hold to both Gorean philosophy but also incorporate some of the societal norms of Gor into her or her dynamic. In effect, the lifestyler is taking some of what role players are emulating and try to make it into a living principle within his daily life. Lifestylers tend to most often adopt the principles of the Home Stone, the caste system and slavery into their lives, though it will vary based upon the preferences of the lifestyler. Slavery is possibly the most adopted principle, but by no means is there any one defining thing that is required for one to be a called a lifestyler. It is estimated by some that less than 30 to 40% of all Goreans are practicing as Lifestylers; a big part of the reason for this relatively low ratio is the difficulty in translating Gor slavery into an Earth-bound life. The nudity, the fact that slavery is illegal in more than 130 countries and considered an abomination by a massive portion of the population, children, issues with polygamy and polyamory.
There is, at times, a conflict between the differing groups. For example, lifestylers might react toward role players with disdain, taking the position that the role players cheapen their dynamic by making it into a “game”. Those who role play might argue that the lifestylers are simply taking their role play to a different level, but it is, nonetheless, still role play.
Let’s look at some of the specific elements and terminology from Gor that are often incorporated into Earth-bound Gorean dynamics:
The main difference between the Masters and slaves on the fictional world of Gor and those practicing a Gorean lifestyle comes down to a single word: consent. In today’s world, slavery isn’t accepted, or even encouraged, as it is on Gor. So while a woman on the planet Gor is a slave by birth, having no choice in the matter, a Gorean lifestyle slave consents to become a slave, hence the label “consensual slavery”. Thereafter, the degree to which she is treated as such is dependent upon the dynamic. In a strict Gorean dynamic, with the exception of the choice to walk away completely, the slave’s choices become her Master’s. This real-world slavery most resembles the BDSM dynamics typically referred to as “TPE” or Internal Enslavement.
While both a BDSM TPE relationship and Gorean slavery contain aspects that are similar, such as bondage and infliction of pain, there are differences. For example, in Gorean slavery, generally pain is used solely as a punishment and is not enjoyed by the slave. Also, Gorean slavery generally involves only the men as dominants, which is contrary to BDSM.
In general, slavery on Gor is so integral to the society that the culture would likely collapse without it. Slaves are used for every aspect of life - from farming and manufacture, to warfare and commerce. Without the slaves, everything would stop. Throughout history slavery was used on Earth - by the Greeks, Romans, Egyptians, Macedonians, even early Americans. But there’s a significant difference. Where Earth-bound slavery was synonymous with destruction, abuse, immorality, even genocide, Gor-based slavery is less clear-cut. It’s not really presented as either positive or negative, but rather simply a fact of life. Gor slaves tend to be more accepting of their plight, or at least less inclined to fight against it, most likely because any slave who accepts her place is treated with the same respect and honor, care and love as any free person. Regardless of what type of slave one is, Gorean law is clear - slaves do not have rights. Period. Any and all rights are granted solely based upon their heritage, performance and the whims of their Owner. Any rights they do have can be revoked, permanently.
Though not all women on Gor were slaves, those who were, called kajira or kajirae (in the plural), lived according to very specific rules. First, they were nude at all times. Early in the training of a Gorean slave, she is taught that serving, in any manner, is a privilege, whether it be feeding her Master, cleaning his home, or merely waiting on his instructions. On Gor, a kajira serves all men. Her service is not, however, a right, but rather a privilege. Failure to act with complete and immediate obedience can be met with any variety of methods, but the knowledge that she has displeased her Master is the worst of all possible punishments. A kajira can not own anything, and therefore has no honor on her own. However, she has a sense of honor through her service and by honoring any who chooses to own her. A key portion of the kajira training is that she learn to fully embrace her own femininity. Under the guidance of her Gorean Master, she comes to comprehend, accept and even cherish her sexuality - that she is an unrestrained sexual beast, open to all things that please her Master. She is not shy or restrained in anyway with her Master, unless it is his desire for her to be so. Though she is completely compliant and obedient to her Master, she is not without intelligence or wit.
The Gorean Master, himself, is well-controlled, confident, even arrogant. His interest in his slave is not limited to her body, but extends to her mind and spirit as well. His desire is complete ownership of his slave as a woman in all her complexity and individuality. The Gorean Master will push the kajira when needed, challenging her through his dominance to be as pleasing as she possibly can be. He will teach her to embrace her inner slut and utilize her natural beauty as she sees to serve and please him. A traditional Gorean Master uses a combination of domination, reward and punishment to guide and direct his slave. Errors are handled swiftly, in a manner befitting the grievance. This is balanced by rewarding good behavior and obedience.
These are women who are not born, sold or captured into slavery. They can, however, become a slave at any time simply by becoming collared, submitting or showing any gestures of submission.
Rape of a slave is a capital offense on Gor for both slaves and Free People. In Gor, rape is defined as any consensual or non-consensual act that is committed without the approval of the slave’s Owner.
There are quite a few different Gorean positions that slaves may be required to know, depending upon the requirements and preferences of the slave’s Master. Here are some of the most basic:
nadu - the first position a slave is taught, and used when resting. The slave kneels before her Master, head held high but with eyes downcast. Knees are spread widely with the inside of the knees at the same width as her shoulders. The shoulders are held back with spine slightly arched and breasts thrust forward. The hands are placed on the thighs, palms upward. The hips rest gently upon the feet, which are turned inward to take weight off the arches.
bara - traditionally, the second position a slave is taught, but the first she experiences, as it is the position of capture. It can be used for punishment, convenience or a variety of other reasons. The slave lays in the prone position, on the stomach with her wrists crossed behind her lower back. Her ankles are also crossed.
lesha - this position can be used for transport or discipline. This is very similar to the nadu position except that the slave kneels facing away from her Master, her chin is lifted and turned to the side to offer her collar for attachment to a leash, and her hands are behind the back with the wrists held together as if they are already in slave bracelets.
sula - this position is used for training, discipline and inspection. The slave lays on the back in a supine position with hands at her side, palms facing upward. The legs are spread wide enough to be inviting without being ungraceful.
Some practicing Goreans will specifically tell you that irrespective of all other aspects of the lifestyle, the primary draw for them is the concept of Natural Order. But what do they mean by this? In accordance with the Gor series, the Natural Order is the original way of understanding the world and everything in it. Morality is the distinction between right and wrong, good and evil. The Natural Order provides the moral basis for behavior, on the premise that a creature can only be expected to do what it is naturally inclined to do, based on what it is (e.g., a robin has wings, so we would expect it to fly, not swim; a seal on the other hand wouldn’t be expected to fly). Gorean lifestylers tend to be most focused on the Natural Order as it applies to human interactions. Historical information is consulted - examining isolated societies and civilizations and identifying similar behavioral patterns, especially in thriving societies. Because these repeating patterns appear even in isolated societies, it is clear that the only common denominator is humanity itself, naturally genetically encoded in human DNA to influence human behavior. For example (and specifically utilized by many in the Gorean Lifestyle):
Masculinity and male dominance are not just appreciated, they’re celebrated
Femininity and female submission are not just permitted, they’re mandatory
Heterosexuality is the accepted and enshrined norm, other sexualities are marginalized
Human society is exclusive, not inclusive unless the Outsiders accept the native ways
The Natural Order can still be suppressed (but not eliminated or destroyed) by: (1) environmental conditions and conditioning, especially by our current high-tech society, where machines and artificial devices level the field, promoting a more homogeneous society; (2) government through mandating equality of treatment and outcomes, which limits individuality.
Ultimately, the Goreans follow a philosophy of Natural Order, because they believe that by living your life in agreement with who and what you are, you have a greater chance of finding happiness and contentment. The trick is in figuring out who and what you are, and in this, the Natural Order is the perfect place to begin. There are a large number of Gorean women lifestylers who choose to live as Free People, rather than kajirae.
The concept of a Home Stone is apparently a complicated concept, wrought with significant meaning and symbology. To truly begin to understand the Home Stone, one must look to the Books of Gor, which show the value placed upon the Home Stone by every man, woman and child, both free and slave. Goreans will, in a sacred ceremony, swear allegiance to the Home Stone. If you don’t understand the Home Stone and its value to a Gorean the ceremony is meaningless.
There is much more to the Home Stone than is revealed even in the lengthy passages contained in the books. However, this does reveal something of significance: “Indeed, there is a saying on Gor, a saying whose origin is lost in the past of this strange planet, that one who speaks of Home Stones should stand, for matters of honor are here involved, and honor is respected in the barbaric codes of Gor.” This simple sentence is ripe with meaning and importance. To a slight degree, there may be a correlation between the Home Stone and a national flag. And yet, in this day and age, too few truly give the flag significant meaning, unlike an oath to the Home Stone.
Today, we focus on our country, but in generations past, the city was predominant. The concept that a city was not destroyed unless the Home Stone is destroyed may help you to fully comprehend the significance of the Home Stone. The buildings and inhabitants are gone, yet if the Home Stone still exists (not even in the same location), then the city persists. One who claims to be Gorean even here on Earth must understand the concept of a Home Stone. They are often used in Gorean dynamics. Reverence for the Home Stone often superseded differences between castes.
Imagine the reaction of a Gorean when someone tries to destroy their Home Stone. It’s a daunting thought when you have begun to truly understand the meaning of a Home Stone to a Gorean.
I found an analogy on an online site, GoreanPalaces.com, that described the commitment to a Home Stone very clearly: “Think of a breakfast made of bacon and eggs. The chicken simply made a contribution to the breakfast [similar to loyalty to a national flag]. The pig, now the pig is fully committed to the breakfast. Goreans are equally as committed to the Home Stone, since in their own language Gor means Home Stone.”
Gor uses a rather rigid caste system, separating nearly all people into a caste. The primary purpose of the caste system is tro provide some structure and stability within Gorean society. There are three primary groups that are not casted - Priest Kings (who are considered Gods on Gor), slaves (who are considered property) and outlaws. Outlaws are those who have essentially rebelled against the caste system, and are, therefore, outside it. Outlaws are banished from their cities, severing their connection to their Home Stones, living a difficult and dangerous life outside society. There are castes covering most professions, and each has a rank of sorts. For example, Physicians are one of the five castes of the High Caste. High castes are considered socially superior to those in a low caste. In order to belong to a caste, you must belong to a Home Stone (with the exception of the Assassin Caste). On Gor, each city has its own caste system and related hierarchy. With very few exceptions, your caste is determined by the caste of your father.
Goreans are highly preoccupied with the welfare of their caste, foregoing individual desires and ambitions for the greater good of their caste. It is within the caste system that the selfless philosophy of the needs of the many outweigh that of the individual is most evident.
The caste system is not always apparent, or used, in Earth-bound Gorean dynamics, but it can often be found in Earth-bound Gorean communities, whether online or face-to-face.
Unique Characteristics of Earth-bound Gorean Dynamics
Life on Gor and Earth are drastically different, and therefore, even for the most devoted of followers, adjustments must be made from the books in order to life a logistically-possible Gor-based life. Many of the aspects of Gor are brought to earth, just as many are, by necessity, modified (e.g., slavery).
Statistically, it appears that lifestyle Goreans are often married, and often have children of their own. As children seem to be a mostly unknown factor in the Gor series, it tends to be up to the parents as to how much, if at all, to involve their children in their Gorean pursuits. The author of Gorean Lore Wiki indicates that over 75% of the lifestyle couples he/she has met have been practicing for decades, which indicates high devotion to the practice.
Gorean dynamics often operate without the use of a safeword, a concept unknown on Gor. It is for this reason that they are often rejected by those in the BDSM community as not being in compliance with the theory of “Safe, Sane and Consensual”. Goreans, however, do not believe that SSC or RACK are necessary because pain, extreme physical or sexual play are not part of the Gorean lifestyle at all. Sadism and masochism have no place in the Gorean lifestyle. Purportedly, two of the main philosophies of Gorean society are “be what you truly are” and “treat people as what their actions and behavior portray them to be”. Few would argue that actions do not speak louder than words. In practice, for example, this philosophy would indicate that one should not be or consider being a slave unless in the depth of her soul, she truly is one. Further, one should not act like a slave unless she is prepared to actually become a slave.
As I was researching this subject, one of the most interesting essays I came across was written by a strict Gorean Master, evaluating a conversation he had had with a slave with whom he had been long-acquainted. In it, he debunks the idea that a Gorean dynamic is about power or abuse. Instead, he states rather plainly, “Gor is based upon love. Believe it or not. That is the source of its greatness, and its strength. Gor is based upon the love which people can experience for their world, for their companions, and for their humanity. It is built upon the concept that men and women can love the truth, and that they can pursue that truth to its fullest extent….[Gor contains] all expressions of the love for life, the love of beauty, the love of strength, the love of honor…” A Letter to the Lost, by _Marcus_ of Ar, The Gorean Cave. This particular statement was fascinating, particularly in light of the oft-mentioned distain I’ve heard in relation to those practicing a Gorean lifestyle. If true, then it is, perhaps, one of the most misunderstood dynamics I’ve come across to-date.
According to some, a true Gorean Master, then, cherishes, even loves his slave. He does not punish infractions, as he does not wish to inflict pain, but rather disciplines in order to train the slave. The goal is that the slave will not repeat the infraction. The Gorean slave, a kajira, yields to her Master - he guides them toward sensual and sexual bonding (rather than erotic) and she surrenders completely - her heart, her body, her will. The Gorean Master’s goal is more than owning his slave’s compliance; he wants to own her desires, her thoughts, every bit of her. He doesn’t limit himself to BDSM, or kink, or a single scene or play session; His goal is complete and utter ownership of his slave. Erotic sex, stimulation, etc. are used as tools to that end, while pain and punishment are not.
Others hold more closely to the Gorean texts, offering both punishments (which can include pain) and discipline. Generally, though, Gorean dynamics tend to embrace the Gor-inspired concepts of honor, courage, loyalty and other traditional values that are so often missing in modern society. Gorean relationships are often on the extreme end of service and obedience; therefore, it’s essential to remember that despite the frequent focus on slavery without limits and dominance unquestioned, the participants are still people. Generally, the relationships are such that the Master always values and prioritizes His property’s welfare.
Often those who are striving to become kajira struggle with their training. The primary purpose of a kajira is to serve. The service can take many forms, and within a dynamic, ideally that service will evolve to suit the Master’s needs. However, it is interesting to note that learning to serve as a Gorean kajira is considered to be something that can be learned only through personal experience and practice. Emulating another kajira, copying the methods of others, is considered a debasement of the position, a disgrace. It deprives both the borrower and the borrowee of genuine thought and creativity. True service as a kajira cannot occur without creativity and a genuine desire to please.
In essence, due to the diversity of dynamics within the Gorean lifestyle, from the outside, a Gorean dynamic can look much like any other - from a simple traditional marriage to a BDSM M/s relationship and everything in between.
© reflectedtruthsblog 2019
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