Advance Romance #1

Rope as a tool for Intimacy

Rope, and when I say Rope, I mean rope bondage applied in an intimate, an erotic and a power play context, is one of the most powerful tools a Dominant can use to influence a Submissive. (I know most people would say it is a “toy” because we are considered to be “playing.” But toys are for mere amusement and tools are for accomplishing tasks) Few other things are so well suited to deliver its variety of effects. It can give myriad sensation to the skin, muscle and bone. It can wield untold psychological impact to the mind, twist with power to manipulate the body and engulf the feelings in waves of turbulent and vital emotions. In skillful hands, Rope can be a vehicle to profound experience, connection and intimacy.

What makes Rope so influential is the fact that it has such little form. The state of an uncoiled rope is almost liquid. I think this is why some Dominants feel uncomfortable with it; there is no way to hide behind it. It must be animated. It is empty, waiting to serve, to be given form by its application to a body, like paint waiting to color a canvas. It will always show the truth of the Top using it. It is personal, intimate.

Because of its empty nature, rope transmits the intent and power of the Top undisguised and unfiltered. Every nuance, every tremor, and every subtle sensation is given clear transmission to one who receives it. (rope does have a “self.” There are differences in texture and smell etc, but these are subtle, thus those who enjoy these things are finely tuned and can wallow in nuance, its strength)

Rope is Zen-like in its embracing of opposites. It is empty in the hands of the Active principle but has form when it meets the Passive one. It is Yin to the Yang and Yang to the Yin. It is a connection that is fluid, moving constantly in both directions. This “tool” is no mere toy. In the hands of one who is clear and unafraid to show themselves to their partner, it is a way of communication, an expression of power that if received in same way, can transform and heal. This is very powerful yet humble. Its intent is clear. Its purpose understood. It is true intimacy.