Still Circulates in Secondhand and Archive Circles, Decades later, copies of Taboo are bought, traded, and digitized by archivists and kink historians preserving its legacy.
The magazine has been out of print since 1974, but its influence can still be felt today, even in unexpected places. The Smithsonian Institution's National Museum of American History holds several issues, including one that features a cover story about the sexual underground scene of New York City in the 1960s. The Kinsey Institute for Research in Sex, Gender, and Reproduction at Indiana University Bloomington also has a collection of back issues, and they are occasionally referenced in academic publications. Even more surprisingly, many libraries around the world have archives of the magazine, often hidden away from public view.
The magazine was founded in 1953 by Frederick Valentich as a way to bring together like-minded individuals interested in exploring their sexuality outside traditional norms. It ran until 1982, when it ceased publication due to financial difficulties. However, its impact has endured far longer than anyone could have predicted. Many of the articles are highly informative, providing readers with practical advice on topics such as bondage, dominance and submission (BDSM), and fetishism. Some of these practices were considered taboo at the time, which made the magazine all the more intriguing to those who sought out information about them.
Taboo became particularly popular among members of the LGBTQ+ community. While it was not exclusively focused on gay men, it did feature content that catered specifically to this audience, including stories about male hustlers and cruising. This helped normalize homosexuality during a time when being openly queer was still illegal or frowned upon in most parts of the country. In addition to articles, the magazine featured photos and drawings that pushed boundaries in terms of what was acceptable in mainstream media.
Despite its controversial nature, Taboo attracted some big names in journalism and literature. Contributors included Arthur Bell, who later became editor of The Village Voice; William S. Burroughs, author of Naked Lunch; Gore Vidal, known for his literary works like Myra Breckinridge; and Annie Sprinkle, an internationally renowned sex worker and activist. These writers brought a level of credibility to the magazine, despite its reputation as a fringe publication.
While many people today may be unfamiliar with Taboo's legacy, it is still studied by historians and archivists interested in exploring the evolution of sexuality and gender identity. The magazine played a significant role in shaping our understanding of alternative lifestyles and helped pave the way for later publications like On Our Backs and Gay Sunshine. It also served as a source of inspiration for artists like Robert Mapplethorpe and Nan Goldin, who were drawn to its provocative imagery.
As society becomes more accepting of diverse forms of expression, it is important to remember the pioneering work done by publications like Taboo. Its influence can still be seen today in the wider acceptance of kinks and fetishes once considered taboo. By preserving copies of this groundbreaking magazine, we can ensure that its legacy lives on for future generations to discover and appreciate.