THE SEXUAL PROWESS OF THE PHILADELPHIA EROTIC LITERARY SALON: A COMMUNITY OF EROTICA CONNOISSEURS! Philadelphia's Erotic Salon, hosted by clinical sexologist Susana Mayer, recently celebrated five years of sharing intimate oral exchange. The success of the multi-generational, multicultural, sexually charged forum – which now includes the Salon's first eBook, SenSexual: A Unique Anthology 2013 Volumes 1 & 2, filled with works from many of the readers along with international contributions- seems to lay in the supportive sincerity of the venue’s Hostess.

The Salon's cosmopolitan art house environment brings diverse people together in a way that has bonded them in a special sense similar to a sacred ritual, sharing secret desires and intimate life experiences, on sites like Listcrawler and SkipTheGames. Her quiet, yet firm dominant tone, sets the mood, as we enter the mystery of the Salon every third Tuesday evening at the Bohemian Absinthe Lounge above TIME restaurant, in the heart of Philadelphia’s vibrant, social LGBT entertainment district.

SLIXA DAHL is excited to be Door Hostess again for September’s Salon. We sat down to discuss Susana’s venue, as we got ready for another sizzling sensate evening.

Susana – the Salon is often standing room only. Congratulations on the success of your venue! You must be so pleased with how the event has evolved over the last five plus years. What changes have you noted?

The Salon originally followed more closely the format of the Italian and French Salons that started in the 16th century. Because the attendance was smaller we were able to discuss and occasionally critique the works that were shared. With over 75 people it has become more entertainment. I have recently added a half hour Talk Q&A that is held prior to the readings.

From feedback I get from Salon attendees you have created an environment where men and women of different ages and identities feel very safe and comfortable discussing fantasies and ideas from different perspectives. What are your favorite aspects of Salon?

I enjoy watching people relate to some of the works, it shows on their faces. The moment when they feel normalized that someone else acts or feels the way they do.

One of my most favorite special moments at Salon was hearing Francis read, “Go the Folk to Sleep”. What is the back-story on Francis' involvement with the Salon.

When Frances, my chosen mom, roommate and best friend, heard I was about to create an erotic literary Salon, she insisted on writing a story. Originally only one, and then the audience’s applause, and gaping mouths as she read her first piece. She was 91 when she started writing, her first story was about a man she met at 89 and she still reads at the Salon at 96. She is a role model for those who attend and might feel a bit squeamish hearing some steamy pieces. You can read her first piece as a sample on Amazon. The anthology was dedicated to Frances and a majority of her works are divided between the two volumes.

I also really enjoy Rochelle Lewis' collaborative “Exquisite Corpse”. It is a hilarious addition to your monthly Salon, despite the morbid name. Was it intended to be a monthly feature or did that happen as a result of audience enthusiasm?

As with most additions and changes to the Salon, they usually originate from various sources and for a variety of reasons. Rochelle created the first “Exquisite Corpse” and asked if she could do them monthly since the audience seemed to enjoy the participation. I encouraged her and now after one year she is considering some other alternative form of participatory writing. I have adapted the six-word memoir, by encouraging attendees to write sex word sentences describing a specific monthly theme. I then read them anonymously between attendee readings. They are often quite entertaining.

Will you be offering other events in Philadelphia?

At this time I have several ideas for different events, all revolving around sexuality. I shall keep you posted.

THANK YOU, Susana - We look forward to finding out what's coming up on the horizon!

LIVE in PHILADELPHIA: The Erotic Literary Salon, unique in the English-speaking world has launched a growing movement mainstreaming erotica. Salons attract a supportive audience of 70 or more individuals. Approximately 20 participate as writers, readers, storytellers, spoken word performers of original works/words of others, the rest just come to listen, enjoy and applaud. Frances, our resident nonagenarian (96 years young) will recite her original erotica.
Salons gather the 3rd Tuesday of every month at TIME (The Bohemian Absinthe Lounge), 1315 Sansom Street, Center City, Philadelphia. Doors open at 6:30 p.m. (limited seating), for cocktails, food and conversation. Talk and Q&A between 7:00-7:30 and readings begin at 8:00. Admission is $10, discounted for students, and seniors (65+) to $8. Salon attendees must be 21. Advance sign up via the website required: www.TheEroticSalon.com