It does not promote rape, molestation

Published 9:00 pm Thursday, October 5, 2006

After reading the Thursday letter on the “Rocky Horror Show” (“Paper shouldn’t promote such shows”), I had to laugh in disbelief, then felt shame that there are still people out there who will call it “horrendously perverse” and blame movies, literature and art for society’s ills.

Saying such productions lead to pornography is an amazing leap of “reason.” “Rocky Horror” in no way promotes rape or child molestation. Rape is not consensual and one is harmed, children are incapable of giving informed consent and they too are harmed, and animals cannot give consent. I see more harmful behavior in the news from various politicians, teachers, religious leaders and sports team members than I do from Dr. Frank-N-Furter and the company he keeps.

What is wrong with a bizarre lifestyle? (Some may see your lifestyle as bizarre.) Who determines what is “deviant”? I feel that one’s sexual practices are more a matter of taste than a right or wrong decision. Most people like chocolate but if I do not and I prefer vanilla, that does not make me “deviant.” The problem isn’t in one’s sexual preference but in one’s lack of ethics, forethought and self-control.

If you don’t like the “Rocky Horror Show” for whatever reason, then don’t see it. I, for one, will feel pity for children who will be misinformed and will likely miss out on one of the lighter, funnier and talented works of the late 20th century. I thank The Herald for promoting the New Everett Theatre’s production of the “Rocky Horror Show.” For society’s sake, I hope the writer’s children will one day come to enjoy this musical just as many responsible, and family-friendly, citizens of Everett have.

Gregor Michels

Camano Island