The word “slut” has been in the news a lot lately.
I have a complaint, and I direct this, not just at the guy who brought it to our attention, but to guys in general.
“Slut” is a pejorative term applied, for the most part, to single women who are sexually “active.” We have many such terms in the English language, including whore, floozy, harlot, hooker, demimonde, mistress, hussy, jade, Jezebel, trollop, tramp, minx, wench, strumpet, tart, slattern, streetwalker, and baggage.
So guys . . . here is my question: A large number of heterosexual men claim to be eager to have sexual encounters with women they are not married to. If this is truly the case, then why in god’s name would anyone ever say anything to discourage such behavior?
If I may be so bold, I am generally in favor of such things myself, at least when done tastefully and in moderation. And I would like to point out that making such encounters occur can be a somewhat delicate operation. In other words, I need all the help I can get . . . and I do NOT need anyone mucking up the works by making generally disparaging comments about women who are willing to engage in this sort of activity.
C’mon guys, you’re either for single women being available for sex or you’re against it. If you are for it, please avoid using any words that might possibly serve to gum up the works or cause guilt or hesitation in the parties in question. And if you’re against it, I have some equally offensive words to apply to you. C’mon guys, use your heads. Let’s get on the team bus. And Rush, shut up. You’re not helping.
© Justin Locke
