Naked Truth

Through shared experience--personal observation--I've arrived at a couple conclusions about general nakedness. My conclusions hold true for only two circumstances. The individuals are totally alone OR they are alone with their partner(s).

1) Men are more comfortable strutting around in their all-together.

2) Unless in bed, occupied with a partner or sleeping, women are more likely to slip into some type of body covering than stroll around naked.

You may wonder why I bring this up. Yeah, you might. Well, here's the thing. With a very few, very few exceptions, regardless of genre, the first thing men do after sex in any book I've read if put on SOMETHING--even if they're just going to the bathroom. Briefs, trousers, a towel...something. Why? It's counter to everything I know about men.

The individuals are alone. No kids, other folks, yada, yada. And yet, this odd behavior. Through careful polling and listening to other women talk, I've collected a lot of stories about men who revel in the opportunity to go naked. They watch their sports programs, guzzle their beer, cook breakfast, laze on the couch STARK NAKED.

Now women, in general, don't. We're a bit more fastidious. We shrug on a robe or nighty if we're gonna go cook. Probably because we have experience with spattering grease and hot water. If we're going to watch TV, we're more likely to put on a sloppy t-shirt and panties or shorts, or if it's winter, maybe even sweats.

I have noticed temperature doesn't seem to affect whether or not a man will dress. Winter or summer, if the opportunity arises, they'll shed their clothes and stalk around in naked splendor.

I've pondered this difference for a long while. I believe there is subtle passive-aggressive intimidation involved. "Here I am, willing and ready to assert my dominance."

And women, in response, cover up. We send our own silent reply, "Not now."

So, when writing, I suspect authors subconsciously immediately 'dress' their heroes to remove this threat, to signal their hero's acquiescence with the new less threatening circumstances. Sex is finished. Now the characters are on more equal footing.

Is this important? I don't know. But I found it interesting.

anny