13 Comments
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Michael Horvich's avatar

Wish I was in NYC to see this show. Jamie's description of the anonymous sex I remember from some 40 to 60 years ago is so on target. His sense of humor which carries the monologue is fun. This was a great read and a needed trip down memory lane. Fondly, Michael

Charles G. Thompson's avatar

The Ramble, the piers, even the streets... miss it all! Wonderful essay, thank you!

Jamie Brickhouse's avatar

I miss the thrill of adventure those haunts provided. Thank you.

David Groff's avatar

Jamie, this brought back memories--and I love the turn at the end!

Jamie Brickhouse's avatar

I miss the Ramble!

Elle Waters's avatar

I loved this essay and the unexpected twist!

Jay's avatar

Lucky you - you went to rambles and came out with the love of your life - I was the ignored, crushed guy. Whether it’s hook ups in the bushes then or left-swiping now, gay men will always be mean.

Jamie Brickhouse's avatar

I definitely experienced the mean ones. That’s what I meant by Darwinian cruelty of those situations. I was rejected many times.

Jay's avatar

Still waiting for my Prince in the Bushes…

Moorea Maguire's avatar

I've always envied gay men for being able to have sex so easily. I'm curious, though: How much alcohol do you typically drink before cruising? I can't imagine _wanting_ to have anonymous sex unless I'd had 3+ drinks. I prefer to get to know someone first -- like after 2-5 dates -- before sleeping together. Just trying to understand, not judging.

Jamie Brickhouse's avatar

I started anonymous cruising before I started drinking, so never needed booze to cruise. However, I was often under the influence. Once I got sober, I discovered I still didn’t need booze to cruise.

Moorea Maguire's avatar

Wow! Thanks for explaining that. And I loved your piece, by the way. “Named sex.” 🤣

It makes me wonder if there are women who enjoy sober anonymous sex or if I’m typical in wanting to get to know someone first.

Jamie Brickhouse's avatar

I think you’re typical—many women are wired that way. In Fear of Flying Eric Jong famously wrote about a woman craving anonymous sex, which she called “the zipless fuck”. Delighted that you live my piece.