Recently I received an email from a person whom I shall not name in order to protect their privacy. This person wished to express his views about BDSM Contracts. This is what he wrote:

“just a word about the merits of a “Master (Mistress) / slave Contract” . . .

of course the obvious: it sets the position as to the unequal equation relationship . . .who is in control and who is the one controlled . . and of course, what the relationship involves . . .and its parameters . . .

but . . perhaps most importantly it locks in the psychological mechanics and dynamic which makes the whole thing “work” . . . once a contract is drawn and signed (and even witnessed) each knows its standing (or kneeling) one in regard to the other . . a slave instantly becomes aware of what or who he /she is . . .as does the Master / Mistress / Owner . . .that sense of “identification” serves a most important function for both . . one fills the role he / she is assigned and has obligated themselves to . .to do less would be to fail one’s own self . . . (although slave contracts may have no legal standing per se, they could be displayed for public viewing should that be agreed upon at the outset . .or . . posted for “public pillory” display should the sub / slave fail to keep the agreed upon terms letting the whole world know of it’s reneging of their promise and commitment so that any future possible masters /Mistresses / etc. would be aware of that history . . .

i think the contracts are essential . . .“

I do not know whether this person is a D-type or an s-type. Regardless, I wrote back and thanked him for the email. I also responded:

“…I have a few thoughts: what if a Master/Mistress is the one in breach? Who will be the arbiter of whether there was in fact a breach, or simply a misunderstanding or ambiguity in the terms of the contract? If there is no “just trial”, would that not make the Master/Mistress judge, jury and executioner? Some things to ponder I guess.”

What do you think?

I would love to hear your opinions/ideas on this issue. Please feel free to add yours below: