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comes a slippery slope. If someone gropes you out of turn, it is acceptable to move away or move their hand off –they’ll get the hint and move on. If you feel harassed or threatened, the staff are trained to handle such situations. You’ll also want to act with some common sense –if you’re strapped into a harness and blindfolded in the common area, you don’t exactly get to be choosy about who approaches. What to bring to the bathhouse? If you fail to plan, you plan to fail. It’s generally a good idea to bring condoms and lube if you plan to get frisky. A douche doesn’t hurt, either (hypothetically). Wet wipes are a good idea, as is a bottle of water if you plan to be in there for a while. Essentially, bring anything you need to have a sexy and safe experience. At least you know you don’t have to worry over what to wear! You might also consider bringing a friend. I know –to a bathhouse?! Seriously, if it’s your first time especially you’ll want to have someone watching out for you. Don’t worry, in the semidark you shouldn’t be staring at each other –much. Setting hourly check-ins is great if you plan to spend the night jumping from room to room. In conclusion, bathhouses are not only relevant in 2020, they’re an exciting opportunity to explore queer culture and your own sexuality. While problematic in many ways (most don’t allow women or trans men to use the facilities), they can be fun and sexy. Maybe I’ll see you there. MM

GIL SEGEV is a fourth-year criminology and professional writing major and an executive member of MacMedia Magazine. Find him on Instagram at @gsiproductions

BY NOAH MYLES GRAYSON

The Persian rug that patterns my glassy retinas every time we meet gains my recognition over any proficiencies shown off on the wall —they whittle away after a while.

Seduced into a retrogressed state with his gossamer words ossifying even self-denying thoughts, his head eventually dips below my natural field of view to wield himself as liberator of my plan to give up our ghost. Surrounding me in this condensed place are impulses, Their seams holding me here, so empty yet so fulfilling as they orient me. They do not do justice for him, with the fabrication they provide.

But with the opening of his door into a life not entire this but not entirely undue of death, I retire back into a mind less prone to scrutiny. MM