Taboo and Hustler are two distinct publications that have been around since the early 1980s, each with their own unique style and approach to delivering content. While Hustler was known for its brash political satire and aggressive sexuality, Taboo was quieter but darker — focusing less on humor and more on the intensity and psychology of kink. It was less about shock value and more about subversion.
Hustler Magazine: Brash, Aggressive, Comedic
Created in 1974 by Larry Flynt, Hustler has been a staple in American culture for decades, featuring controversial covers and risqué articles. The magazine is infamous for its outrageous content, which often pushes boundaries with its explicit language and imagery. Its political satire is unapologetic, making it an iconic publication that challenged censorship laws and became a symbol of free speech. Hustler's brand identity can be summed up as raunchy, irreverent, and aggressive.
Taboo Magazine: Dark, Psychological, Subversive
On the other hand, Taboo, founded in 1995 by Greg Lansky, took a different approach. It focused on the psychology of sex and fetishism, exploring taboos through in-depth interviews and sensual photoshoots. The magazine aimed to educate readers on alternative lifestyles while also providing erotic entertainment. Its tone was more serious and introspective than that of Hustler, with fewer jokes and more analysis.
Aesthetics: Taboo vs. Hustler
Both publications were visually appealing in their own way, but Taboo's design was sleek and minimalist compared to Hustler's bold graphics. Taboo had a muted color palette and sophisticated layout, whereas Hustler relied heavily on bright colors and attention-grabbing images. Each magazine had a distinct style, tailored to their respective audiences.
Target Audience: Taboo vs. Hustler
While both magazines targeted adult audiences, they approached their readership differently. Hustler's audience skewed towards men, who enjoyed its crude humor and over-the-top content. Taboo was geared towards women who desired to explore their sexuality in a safe and consensual environment. Taboo also attracted a niche group of people interested in BDSM and kink, which is not typically represented in mainstream media.
Legacy: Taboo vs. Hustler
Taboo struggled financially after 15 years due to a decline in advertising revenues and competition from digital media. It folded in 2018, leaving behind a legacy of challenging norms and exploring the human psyche through sex. On the other hand, Hustler continues to thrive as an online publication and remains a cultural icon for its controversial approach to politics and pornography.
In conclusion, Taboo and Hustler are two publications with vastly different approaches to delivering erotic content. While Hustler relies on shock value and comedy, Taboo focuses on psychology and education. Their design and target audience reflect these differences, making them unique publications that appeal to specific groups. Ultimately, both have left their mark on American culture in different ways.