1. Introduction
2. Apparel
3. Free Companionship
4. Enslavement
5. Castes
6. Slave relations
7. Panther girls
8. Taverns

Additions

Karian Table Discussions
Postings
Letters

(Information composed from the works of John Norman, and personal insights.)

Forwards of Recent Reprints
Online Revelations
Trek to Sardar
Flanders Fields
Of Truth
Overcoming Conditioning


1. Introduction

Welcome to the world of Gor, and all that lays within a vast counter-earth. First we must define what a Gorean free woman is to understand the very intricate path she walks. Virtuous is one of the most important words in our diction to describe such a woman. She is foremost a lady.

"Aphris of Turia, pleased with herself, assumed her place between the merchant and Kamchak, kneeling back on her heels in the position of a Gorean free woman. Her back was very straight and her head high, in the Gorean fashion." Page 94 Nomads of Gor

Her clandestine presence is heavily veiled with yards of fabric wrapped around her slender frame. A free woman’s beauty is concealed from the eyes of men for her own safety. She must constantly be aware of her behavior in public. Always aware that her guards must protect her from the harsh realities of this primitive world. She is known as the veiled mother, and sister to many within her city. She is legally allowed to give birth to free children, and raise them in her home. She keeps a home in her charge and slaves functioning often delegating duties for smooth daily living. A free woman can be of high caste or low caste. It depends on her families holdings in where she stands in this world. It is to her benefit that she is of high caste however, for she would fetch a large bride price and have a better chance of surviving as a free woman. She is often thought of as cold, and unfeeling. This is not the case. It was shown that even Lara the Tatrix of Tharna had no issue at all helping kajira serve. She too was not above pleasing men. The popular stereotype for a free woman is that she is cold, and frigid. This could be true to an individual however free women were often very sensual, and warm in their demeanor.

".......the laughter of veiled girls teasing and being teased by young men, girls purportedly on errands for their families. Yet somehow finding the time to taunt the young swains of the city, if only a flash of their dark eyes and perhaps too casual adjustment of their veil." Page 67 Outlaw of Gor

It is true that as a free woman’s options on her status are not many. It is difficult at best for her to maintain her status with chain luck as a popular sport and the other various ways she can be thrown to her belly. There are a few different paths a free woman can opt out on. The first, she can be enslaved, buckling to her knees and lifting her wrists to be bound. Two, if offered, she can take honorable death, this choice is rare. Three, they can bring a huge ransom from the men in her city, or her family. With the fact that stabilization serum is given to every body on the planet Gor, it is safe to assume that they have a minium of ten more lifetimes then we of earth. In this time frame a free woman could face only 25 years in such a mans collar, and that would seem irrelevant in her vast life expectancy. The relationship between free women and men was often good natured, and in the spirit of teasing. I find that in the novels it is hard to nail down an actual day in the life of a Gorean. Most of the stories are consistent with wars to be won, and the male characters. It is nice to see a sliver of such a day in the quote below.

" The same maiden whom her father must harshly order in to the presence of her suitor, the same shy girl who, her parents approvingly note, finds herself delicately unable to raise her eyes in his presence, is probably the same girl who slapped him with a fish yesterday and hurled such a stream of invective at him that his ears still smart, and all because he accidently happened to be looking in her direction when an unpredicatable wind had, in spite of her best efforts, temporarily disarranged the folds of her veil." Page 68 Outlaw of Gor

"The basic characteristic of a ... woman is, interestingly, femaleness;...." Page 10 Tribesmen of Gor

"She drew back, reproachfully, Would you not rather be my Ubar, than my Master? she asked. I looked at her, yes, I said, I would. You are both, she pronounced, again kissing me. Ubara, I whispered to her. Yes, she whispered, I am your Ubara -- and your slave girl." Page 244 Raiders of Gor

"Gorean women, whether slave or free, know that their simple presence brings joy to men, and I cannot but think that this pleases them." Page 54 Outlaw of Gor

"This harsh treatment, incidentally, when she is thought to deserve it, may even be inflicted on a Free Companion, in spite of the fact that she is free and usually much loved. According to the Gorean way of looking at things a taste of the slave ring is thought to be occasionally beneficial to all women, even the exalted Free Companions. Thus when she has been irritable or otherwise troublesome even a Free Companion may find herself at the foot of the couch looking forward to a pleasant night on the stones, stripped, with neither mat nor blanket, chained to a slave ring precisely as though she were a lowly slave girl." Page 67 Priest Kings of Gor

You have chosen to be a free woman in the philosophy of Gor, one of the criteria of doing such means that your search will include the need for companionship at some point to a free male. For even a free woman is pleasing to a man. It is in this regard that she will excel and perhaps bear children to such a man, raising them also in this philosophy. The openness and freedom that Norman has given us in his books have surpassed even his expectations. It is my opinion that when he sat for the first time with pen in hand he did not realize that we, the living would recognize or commit ourselves to living the fiction that he was about to share. What was a collection of stories has become an entire structure of returning to the basics that we once knew. Perhaps trying to defeat in our society the break down of genders, and relationships. It is truth that we must live by, not opinion. In our own evaluation of our needs we can find a common truth in which to live by. Codes in which to enforce into our realities. It is what is rightfully ours, the strength of men, and the femininity of women. Ours. In this choice we take responsibility for living to the best of our abilities in that truth, and honest perception of Gor. The relationships are not based only upon a sexual freedom rediscovered in Norman, it is based on the fundamental issues that this society has long put to pasture.

Ta-Sardar-Gor! (To the Priest Kings Of Gor)


2. Apparel

The majority of free women in the northern temperate zone conformed to the robes of concealment and veils that aptly hid their frames from view. It was the high caste free woman that would go to great length covering any line of their body from view. A brocaded gown covered by the first robe would be the basic starting point for a wealthy woman. For her to access the outside she would add several more robes of opaque material to further conceal her body from sight. The material and patterns would vary from city to city, and trends that would be considered popular for that season. It was not uncommon for a well off woman to assemble a head piece that is akin to arabic fashion, it was this headpiece she would attach her five veils to with various pins, and ribbons. Her footwear would consist of either a silk pair of slippers or tight fitting boots hugging her calves. Gloves also were a needed article to add to the entire outfit. It covered slender fingers from the wandering eye. It should be noted that women of lower caste had no covering on their calves or lower arms. A shoulder however must always be covered, this was a sign of submission in a woman if such was privy to eyes.

"Free women of the rencers, in the Delta of Vosk do not wear veils or robes of concealment." Page 362 Vagabonds of Gor

"Description of standards of decorum for free women. Note that low caste free women commonly might have their calves , or lower arms exposed." Page 367 Renegades of Gor

"In the Tahari, some free women wear bells and walking chains. To measure their gait." Page 21 Vagabonds Of Gor

"Free women of the wagon people do not wear veils." Page 239 Renegades of Gor

It was also known that the women of the Tuchuk wore leather rather then the heavier robed materials of the northern women. As you can see the many variations that the free women had in choice of dress.
The veils of concealment are very simple in their ware. They are very much part of the intriguing ways of a free woman. Of course the panther girls who were termed free also wore very little, perhaps the skin of animals adorning their shapes, and useful in their hunting.

"Eta, from behind me, pinned the first of five veils about my face. It was light, and shimmering, of white silk, almost transparent. Then, one after the other, she added the freedom veil, or veil of the citizeness, the pride veil, the house veil, and street veil. Each of these is heavier and more opaque than the one which lies within. the street veil, worn publicly, is extremely bulky, quite heavy and completely opaque; not even the lineaments of the nose and cheeks are discernible when it is worn; the house veil is worn indoors when there are those present who are not of the household, as in conversing with or entertaining associates of one's companion. Veils are worn in various numbers and combinations by Gorean free women, this tending to vary by preference and caste. Many low class Gorean women own only a single veil which must do for all purposes. Not all high-caste women wear a large number of veils. A free woman, publicly, will commonly wear, one or two veils; a frequent combination is the light veil, or last veil, and the house or street veil. Rich, vain women of high caste may wear ostentatiously as many as nine or ten veils. In certain cities, in connection with the free companionship, the betrothed or pledged beauty may wear eight veils, several of which are ritualistically removed during various phases of the ceremony of companionship; the final veils, and robes, of course, are removed in private by the male who, following their removal, arms interlocked with the girl, drinks with her the wine of the companionship, after which he completes the ceremony. This sort, of thing, however, varies considerably from city to city. In some cities the girl is unveiled, though not disrobed, of course, during the public ceremony. The friends of the male may then express their pleasure and joy in her beauty, and their celebration of the good fortunes of their friend. The veil, it might be noted, is not legally imperative for a free woman; it is rather a matter of modesty and custom. Some low-class, un-companioned, free girls do not wear veils. Similarly certain bold free women neglect the veil. Neglect of the veil is not a crime in Gorean cities, though in some it is deemed a brazen and scandalous omission. Slave girls may or may not be veiled, this depending on the will of their master. Most slave girls are not permitted to veil themselves. Indeed, not only are they refused the dignity of the veil, but commonly they are placed in brief, exciting slave livery and may not even bind their hair." Page 106 Slavegirl Of Gor

"The High Initiate had risen to his feet and accepted a goblet from another Initiate, probably containing minced flavored ices, for the day was warm. Free women, here and there, were delicately putting tidbits beneath their veils. Some even lifted their veils somewhat to drink of the flavored ices. Some low-caste free women drank through their veils, and there were yellow and purple stains on the rep-cloth." Page 141 Assassins of Gor

"Some call them the forest girls," said Ute. "Others call them the panther girls, for they dress themselves in the teeth and skins of the forest panthers, which they slay with their spears and bows." Page 82 Captive of Gor

It is difficult imagining a free woman walking down the streets of our cities in society draped in veils and robes. Often you will see most in jeans, and jogging pants, and assorted dresses and skirts. How can we touch base with the feminine side of being a woman, and showing that through the times we live in. I think that it is indeed simple. That to care more about our physical and mental image, and character would clearly represent itself in the physical aspect of our bodies. We suffer today with weight, and emotional suicide. Perhaps taking more notice through the philosophy of Gor, for the pleasure of men suits us in today’s age.


3. Free Companionship

This relationship between a free woman and a free man would be similar to the custom we know as marriage. However, there are some radical differences in each ceremony. Our celebrations range from very simple visits to the Justice of the Peace, to thousands of dollars spent on flowers, and food. We often choose who we wish to marry in modern times. A free woman would be contracted, and a number of prospects brought forth in some cases. In others, it could be two wealthy families joining to increase their lands, and monies. The actual ceremony consists of drinking the wine of companionship between the two, sharing one vessel. This agreement was renewed yearly between the couple. For otherwise it would become null and void. Aside from the books in our reality this companionship of the philosophy would be a side for the legalities of where we live require we marry under the law. It seems to me that with the present divorce rate this process could actually have more hope then the situation we have garnered. I believe it would make the commitment stronger between couples as they would have to reflect on a yearly basis why they were brought together in the first place. It is fact those that have applied the philosophy of Gor to their lives have married their slaves for the legal aspect of benefits and the presence of a surname for children born. However, it is also known these women have by consent remained slave behind the closed doors of their homes. Serving their mates in the capacity of slave. It is another difference that shows us the vast gulfs between Gor, and earth.

"I will take you to Ko-ro-ba, I said, to my city. As your slave? she smiled. If you will have me, I said, as my free companion. I accept you Tarl of Ko-ro-ba, said Talena with love in her eyes." Page 213 Tarnsman of Gor

"Gorean free women do not take the man’s last name when they join in a free companionship." Page 13 Explorers of Gor

"Free People come from the conception of a child, between a free man and a free woman, but they may be born from the belly of a slave, by Tharnan law. In most cities, women must be free until the child is born, for the child to be considered free as well. Boys, as a portion of the home-stone ceremony, swear an oath of mastery to never surrender the dominance which is rightfully their’s by nature." Page 267 Vagabonds of Gor

As part of the free companionship a bride price was usually inclusive to the wealthier women. The price could range from a small amount to much larger amounts depending on caste. In the case of Talena the daughter of an Ubar it was said she was worth over 1000 tarns. Yet in the case of Sana, her bride price was 100 tarns. Still quite high for the meager wages of a warrior.

"She replied proudly, my bride price would be a hundred tarns..........On a warriors allowance I would not have been able to afford her." Page 71 Tarnsman of Gor

"There is no marriage, as we know it, on Gor, but there is the institution of the free companionship, which is its nearest correspondent. Surprisingly enough, a woman who is bought from her parents, for tarns or gold, it is regarded as a free companion, even though she may not have been consulted in the transaction. More commendably, a free woman may herself, of her own free will, agree to be such a companion. And it is not unusual for a master to free one of his slave girls in order that she may share the full privileges of a free companionship. One may have, at a given time, an indefinite number of slaves, but only one free companion. Such relationships are not entered into lightly, and they are normally sundered only by death. Occasionally the Gorean, like his brothers in our world, perhaps even more frequently, learns the meaning of love." Page 54 Outlaw of Gor

"In a man's hut, he must be Master, even though he has selected out for himself a companion. It is the part of the companion to befriend and aid him, not to insult and drive him." Page 241 Slave girl of Gor

"Women wish to be free," I told her. "Yes," she said, "we also wish to be free." She smiled. "In every woman," she said, "there is something of the Free Companion and something of the Slave Girl." Page 204 Priest Kings of Gor

Can you imagine the parents of two children that were raised in the philosophy of Gor, arranging another companionship very much like their own. Perhaps a free man and his slave arranging a companionship for their offspring which are indeed free. I think that much success would be the outcome of such an arrangement in the squandering society we live in. They would also be able to share with one another the values that they both have grown up with, and both understand. It would be a horrific sentence for a person that believes in the philosophy to go out and try to seek a female, or male, that was virtually blind to this option of life. Perhaps a jail sentence would be a better descriptive in which this child of Gorean parents would live. We are gifted these stories and musings by Norman. Gifted to live a cleaner life with priorities firmly in place. The joy such a union could bring this community as a whole can only strengthen our own beliefs that indeed it can be lived, and lived well. It is a doctrine we have opened our hearts, and arms to. Embracing it carefully, unable to shatter such a strong truth. The truth is what we all require, in some form. It betters us as humans, and betters us to live fully the lives we were given.

"An extremely good price, under relatively normal market conditions, for a truly beautiful woman of High Caste tends to be about thirty pieces of gold, though some go as high as forty, and fifty is not unknown; these prices, for women of low caste, may be approximately halved." Page 293 Assassins of Gor


4. Enslavement

Formal charges upon a Free Woman which indicate suitability to be collared;

1) Fraud, theft, vagrancy, indigent, prostitution, and treachery

2) Baring of arms, legs, or face, in public, depending on the city

3) Having pierced ears, depending on the city

4) Indulgence in sensuous dance

5) Lack of patriotism, or failing in the common defense of the Home-stone

6) Jeopardizing of fellow citizens

7) Intent to deceive with respect to Caste
(Referenced from Renegades of Gor, page 372) "In some cities an unveiled free woman is susceptible to being taken into custody by guardsmen, veiled, by force if necessary, and publicly conducted back to her home... Repeated offenses in such a city usually result in the enslavement of the female." Page 125 Players of Gor

"Any woman who dares to appear before men and dance, is in her heart, a slave. Let her then be collared!" Page 297 Mercenaries of Gor

"The Lady Melpomene, angrily, threw back her hood, and then pin by pin, lowered her veil. Her hair as I recalled, was long and dark. Her cheekbones were high, her eyes dark. She was a lovely woman. She face strips herself before free persons, said the Lady Florence. Why are you doing this to me? Cried out the Lady Melpomene. There was again laughter from the Lady Leta and the Lady Perimene." Page 281 Fighting Slave of Gor

"Kneel down beside the bed, I said, facing it, your head down. I am a free woman! She screamed. You do not command me! Do you want your neck broken? I asked. Swiftly she knelt beside the bed, facing it, head down." Page 334 Fighting Slave of Gor

These examples merely represent that free women have submitted to that horrific fear of being collared. The worst act that can be committed against a free woman would be face stripping in a public forum. As you can see with the Lady Florence she very much enjoyed humiliating her sworn enemy the Lady Melpomene. It was due to the amount of debt she permitted her the opportunity to corner this woman by trickery. It is truth that friends, bodyguards, and relatives of a free woman would revenge such acts of face stripping. Death would be considered the first payment of those that would attempt such bold actions. While captured it is the duty of a free woman to try to attain her status regardless of capture. Her fate is usually decided at a later time, and hence her veils would drop silently to the floor in her captors hands. Often though in matters of war women were used to bargain with. It is not in the best interest of a slave to impersonate a free woman, and the punishment for such is determined by city.

The "rite of submission" is an avenue for a free woman to walk. It is her right to submit at any time to a free male, however she must also understand that once she has crossed this gully there is no turning back to former caste, or position. The circumstances and forthcoming of the rite of submission are indeed simple, but not hastily done. It must be weighted carefully by a free woman for it is possible she could lose her life over such an action. She must face strip herself publicly crying out she willingly submits to the person of free will. As a slave would position herself so must this free woman. Arms lifted to be bound by the male in question, and head lowered of course in deference to such a man. This completes the rite of submission.

"I heard the tearing of a veil and a heard a girl scream and turned to see her lips being raped by the kiss of a warrior, and then she was yielding to him; the crowd went wild; here and there was the cry of a woman in the throng that had been seized by those near her; one girl tried to flee and was dragged screaming by the ankle to the foot of the tier; another woman, with her own hands, tore away the veil and seized in her hands the head of a man near her, pressing her lips to his, and in a moment she lay, robes torn, in his arms, weeping, and crying with pleasure." Page 304 Assassins of Gor

"Let her submit to whomsoever she chooses, yawned Ho-Sorl. Very well, wench, said Marlenus, choose your master-. Ubar! she cried. Or be returned to the pens of state slaves. Phyllis looked at him. Choose! ordered Marlenus. Phyllis looked about herself in rage. Then, in fury, she knelt before Ho-Sorl, head down, arms extended and crossed at the wrists, as though for binding." Page 403 Assassins Of Gor

A free woman addressing a free man as "master" constitutes bondage and consensual slavery. This action can be construed as a portion of the rite to submission. A woman can indirectly hint that she wishes to invoke her rights on these matters. Referenced to Kajira of Gor, pages 139. In this action make no mistake a free woman then forfeits her status, title, ranks, and wealth to the man she kneels before. It is without notice that often online in the forum many of us meet on have seen the repetitive switching of free women to slaves. This is not tradition practice according to Norman’s work. I think on a personal note that many have confusion in how to live this philosophy on a very real planet called earth. They are attempting to reason where it is they fit as females. The constant hype about a free woman being asexual, and cold has long been distributed amongst the locals of the net. However, it should be known that even as a free woman sexual awareness or showing such is there underneath, it does not change due to the status one is free. For you can not change the status of female. The most notable difference between slave and free is the ability to show that sexual freedom. A slave is permitted nothing, no walls, and often no clothing. This woman is not allowed any distraction from the fact she is woman, and she will used as such. A free woman has the restrictions of proper place and time. A respect is given to her, a freedom. She sits amongst free men sharing her opinion, and her knowledge of business, or whatever caste she is applied to. Her virtue must stay in tact, yet one never knows what happens in the chambers of she and her mate at night, with the lamps flickering over their flesh.

Chain luck is another fear for a free woman. It is the sport in which men participate. A free woman can not be weighted as beautiful because of her robes of concealment, so when a young warrior decides to make a grab at such a woman he is taking his chances that she is indeed beautiful and worthy of the collar in which he wants to place on her throat. The men of a free woman’s city, and her personal guards are constantly on watch for these activities. Men usually partake of this activity outside their own home-stone, rather then suffer the magistrates scorn, or that of a friend who has discovered his sister in the hands of a neighbor.

"'We sell what we catch,' said Sheera. 'Sometimes chain luck is with Verna, sometimes it is not.' She looked at me. 'What am I bid for the two slaves?' she asked." Page 29 Hunters of Gor

It seems that although Norman was indeed specific on stations of a woman that there was indeed a slave and free woman in each female. How do we apply this to our daily living in a society that has confirmed slavery as an illegal act? It is by consent of that said woman, that she would state, I am slave. I can’t help but conclude however that for the men of Gor, indeed they wished free women in their population, how else can on explain that to every one slave there is a ration of forty to fifty free women. I suppose one could say, that it pleased free men to have it so.

"Are most Gorean women slaves? she asked. No, I said. Indeed statistically, in those parts of Gor with which I am familiar, very few. Commonly only one woman say, forty or fifty is a slave. This varies of course from city to city. The major exception to these ratios is Tharna, in which almost every woman is slave. I looked at her. There are special historical reasons for that, I said." Page 246 Beasts of Gor

Enslavement on Gor came in only two ways, consent by the free woman herself, or the force of steel wrapped around her slender neck. It was not above free women to secretly wish to change her status, or wonder on such marvels of a slave girl. Sexual awareness was very much part of the world of Gor, and the interaction between the two genders. The radical difference that this counter-earth provided that our own has not was, there are indeed two genders which are not the same. We in our modern technology have forgotten to represent ourselves as a truth. The every day tasks often wear out a woman, after parenting, and working a full time job. She has barely begun her day, as she makes it through traffic to get a meal on the table for her family who is also on route home. Imagine the freedom that Gor has offered women in that regard, they are more able to focus on the more important aspects of life.

"Every woman in her heart," said Vika, "wants to wear the chains of a man." This seemed to me quite doubtful. Vika looked up and smiled. "Of course," she said, "we would like to choose the man." Page 204 Priest Kings of Gor

As Vika states, a woman would like the choice of a man to whom she would mate, or submit. We have that choice, in reality. We have the information of Norman’s books, a head start. As women consent and choice of consent is something we own, free or slave.


5. Castes

Let us define what the caste system of Gor was strictly about. For there are five high castes that were the foundation to this world, and approx. 14 lower castes.

High Castes - Rank - Caste - Colors
1 - Initiates - White
2 - Scribes - Blue
3 - Builders - Yellow
4 - Physicians - Green
5 - Warriors - Red

Low Castes - Rank - Caste - Colors
1 - Assassin - Black
2 - Slavers - Blue/Yellow
3 - Merchants - Gold/White
4 - Wood Carriers - Brown/Black
5 - Charcoal Makers - Black/Grey
6 - Tarn Keepers - Grey/Green
7 - Poets - Aqua/Red
8 - Singers - Aqua/Red
9 - Pot Makers - Brown/Green
10 - Saddle Makers - Tan
11 - Metal Workers - Steel Grey
12 - Lamp Lighter - Striped Green/White/Red
13 - Players - Checkered Red/Yellow
14 - Peasants - Brown

Understand that these castes and their social rankings are a matter of great import to the Gorean, frequently the centerpiece for political activism or intrigue as one caste strives for prominence over another, or a sub group within a caste agitates for it's recognition as an independent caste, able to make it's own rules and guidelines. With this said we can now move into where a free woman fits into this caste system and some specifics of that action. She is being free entitled to call the caste of her family her own.

Webster’s defines caste as; any exclusive social class. An example of a woman who was raised in the caste of warriors would be that she has more skill in using weaponry. Not to the point where she could best a man. However her knowledge of weapons, and the care of would be very clear in her upbringing. Such as that of a Physicians daughter; terms and diseases, medicines of that caste would be instilled in her mind, as she too was raised in an environment that allowed such. With the caste of green a free woman studying such would wear a simple bracelet on one wrist until she gave birth, and a second was added. The Goreans felt that until a woman gave birth she could not be a full healer. Quite logical to most. It is however noteworthy that a woman of the scarlet caste would not be classified as a warrior. In some parts of counter earth is was not uncommon that a free woman would defend her home-stone, and fight beside free men.

In reality we would view caste more so as career choices. We are not based on a caste system though some jobs are seen more predominantly then others. Such as doctors, and lawyers, police, and politicians. Military areas, are more giving oneself to a country to protect, and to garner discipline through skills, and war. Peace keeping organizations, and other non profit choices also add up to the many fields available to us on our earth. Being we can not longer rely on one income family support, it is without doubt that those who live this philosophy have chosen careers in which to support themselves, and their means by. This would also include slaves. They too regardless of choice have an obligation to help support the family unit. As you can see slaves on earth are not able to fully live as they would on Gor.

"The welfare of the caste, typically, takes priority in the Gorean mind over the ambitions of specific individuals. The welfare of a larger number of individuals, as the Goreans reason, correctly or incorrectly, is more important than the welfare of a smaller number of individuals." Page 210 Fighting Slave of Gor

"I understand,' I said. I had a respect for caste honor. Honor is honor, in small things as well as great. Indeed, how can one practice honor in great things, if not in small things?" Page 231 Rogue of Gor

"You have drawn a weapon against me,' I said. `You are of the warriors?' said the fellow. He wavered. He, too, knew the codes. `Yes,' I said. `And he?' asked the fellow. `He, too,' I said. `You are not in the scarlet,' he said. `True,' I said. Did he think that the color of a fellow's garments was what made him a warrior? Surely he must realize that one not of the warriors might affect the scarlet, and that one who wore the grimed gray of a peasant, one barefoot, and armed only with the great staff, might be of the scarlet caste. It is not the uniform which makes the warrior, the soldier." Page 129 Magicians Of Gor

"In most cities it is regarded, incidentally, as a criminal offense to enslave one of the caste of players. A similar decree, in most cities, stands against the enslavement of one who is of the caste of musicians." Page 44 Beasts of Gor


6. Slave Relations

It is a difficult and often lonely world for free women according to Norman`s stories. He has stated in numerous places that the Gorean free woman had little or no tolerance for the beautiful kajira’s of Gor. It was stated that indeed it was the free woman that felt bitter jealousy over the sexual freedom a kajira had attained. Regardless the slaves were still required to serve a free woman just as she would a free man. It was not her ability to judge such things for a kajira had only one place to be and that was pleasingly at the feet of the free.

"The Gorean slave girl addresses all free men as 'Master' and all free women as 'Mistress'." Page 215 Assassins Of Gor

"Disgusting!' said the free woman, on the tharlarion, in the hunting costume. I rolled over and looked up. The blond girl, by my side, the slave, cried out with misery, and dared not meet the eyes of her free sister. 'Greetings,' I said. 'Do not permit me to interfere with your pleasures,' she said cooly. The slave girl whimpered and put her head down. How shamed she was before the freedom and grandeur of the free woman. 'Have you found your sport slave yet?' I inquired. 'No, she said. 'But he is quite near.' 'I have not been paying much attention,' I said. 'You have been otherwise engaged,' she said loftily. I wondered at the hatred which free women seen to bear at their im bonded sisters. The hatred, incidentally, is almost never directed at the master, but almost always at the slave. Do they envy the slaves their collars." Page 122 Beasts Of Gor

"Frigidity is a neurotic luxury,' I told her. 'It is allowed only to free women, probably because no one cares that much about them. Indeed, frigidity is one of the titles and permissions implicated in the lofty status of a free woman. For many, it is in effect their proudest possession. It distinguishes them from the lowly slave girl. It proves to themselves and others that they are free. Should they be enslaved, of , it is, for better or for worse, taken from them, like their property and their clothing." Page 243 Beasts of Gor

It is further noted that in the case of Jason, free women did indeed own male slaves. They used them as they saw fit, always reminding these slaves who was the owner and who was the owned. Many free women were afraid to own male slaves, in the fear that the male slave would take revenge upon his mistress. As well as in Ar, they has strict rules on how and where a woman would use her slave.

"Male slaves, on Gor, are not particularly valuable, and to not command high prices. Most labor is performed by free men. Most commonly, male slaves are utilized on the cargo galleys, and in the mines, and on the great farms." Page 32 Hunters of Gor

It is known that in the reality we live in now that often free women have befriended female slaves, and share the fact that even though both have chosen different paths that they have one common ground which is they are both women in the end.


7. Panther girls

" There is a Gorean saying that free women, raised gently in the high cylinders, in robes of concealment, unarmed, untrained in weapons, may by the slaver be plucked like flowers. There is no such saying pertaining to panther girls." Page 118 Hunters of Gor

"Panther girls are swift, fierce hunters." Page 125 Hunters of Gor

Panther girls are simply a delightful fiction Norman added to his works. They were outlawed women that hunted, and lived in the northern forests. Many of those within were free women that had run away, and slaves that tried to escape masters. These women did not associate with the cities of Gor, they preferred their forests and solitary to such. For to enter these cities would have meant certain slavery, as an absolute, possibly death. Their weapons included spears, and hunting knifes. The trade they did was with other outlaws at set points in which outlaws knew one another. They indeed are termed as free women, yet they serve no man. It is often said that panther girls make the best of slaves. That could be due to their passion, and wild demeanor. It was no secret in Norman`s work the affection Marlenus himself had for one of the leaders of the panther girls which was no other then Vera.

To take this to an IRC medium we have seen women that claim they are panther girls. They run around the different channels using an extreme method of role play, in shaving heads, and pretending kills. We know this to be sheer role play in the sense of taking only that the panthers were good hunters. The truth of the matter is if indeed they were panthers they would have little or nothing to do with the taverns, and keeps across IRC. They would simply keep to their designated forest channels, and continue on in this manner. Many of us do not believe in the character of panther girls due to the fact they had no love for civilization. As we are aware the population on Gor is present to communicate, and learn.

"Panther girls hold slave girls in great contempt, and treat them with great cruelty. Slave girls, many of whom have been forced to yield themselves totally to a man, are an object of hatred to panther girls. They represent what the panther girl most fears and hates, her sex." Page 201 Hunters of Gor

"Panther girls, whose life is predicated on the hatred of men ,are not likely to look leniently on such women. The slave girl of course, is given no choice but to be feminine, to be a female. Strangely, this is not regarded as relevant by panther girls." Page 202 Hunters of Gor


8. Taverns

"If you may pleasure yourself in taverns, she said, surely so, too may I. Free women I said do not come here. It is so close to the wharves, It is dangerous. This is Gor." Page 158 Rogues of Gor

There are many quotes that can be followed up pertaining to the presence of a free woman entering taverns. It is well known in the books that blatant sexual acts often occurred. Free women required respect for their position and station as such. It was not often they would be found in a liquored hall with dancing and needy slave girls that with a cup of Paga could be taken off to the alcoves. In reality we know as free women we can walk into bars for drinks without the threat of being raped. Though it has happened where a woman was raped due to what she was wearing. Often these cases that have been prosecuted wee an assault that woman really wanted it in the first place or the wouldn’t have put themselves into that situation. It is indeed a whole other debate, one in which I wont go into here.

Be wary free woman on how you act, and where you place yourselves in this world of Gor. It is truth that you can make many great friends who would defend your honor, but putting yourself in a situation where you must call out constantly will raise eyebrows. We are adults living a very adult philosophy. I wish you well in your travels through a world called Gor.


Nyre
Copyright Feb 2000


Karian Round Table
Version 2.0

This next section contains various posts from the Gorean public boards that have some value to the Free woman section of Karian Notes. I do hope you enjoy the thoughts and meaning put forth.

Nyre


Forwards of Recent Reprints

Tal Goreans,
I bought my first three Norman books through the mail. Coles which is a known bookstore in Canada, happily accepted the order, and wahlaa three weeks later in my hands I had, Tarnsman, Outlaw, and Priest kings. I read them as quickly as I possibly could, and it was not till recently, on my fact finding, quote hunting exhibition did I really look closely at any of these three books. My books are reprints 1996. In each a forward was written.

Michael Rowe Cecilia Tan Steven Saylor.

I was absently muddling through Priest kings, and the forward caught my attention. Michael Rowe was gay. He suggested that through his reading of fighting slave he pondered heterosexual change. Also he noted that the slaves in the nest, twins, had potential for homosexuality. I found this quite remarkable, that Normans books would be forwarded by an individual such as Michael Rowe, due only to the content. It now seems to me, gender, sexual tastes, and age has no limit to whom enjoys the works of Norman.

Cecilia Tan was my next surprise. On IRC, I am almost sure I can walk into a discussion once a week why Gor is not related to Bdsm in any form. Long heated debates have often been the outcome of such. Miss Tan was the published writer of a book called Telepaths Don`t need safe words. One of her experiences of meeting Norman at a science fair is lovingly written in this forward as well.

Steven Saylor I was most impressed with. He spoke of my all time favorite author, who is no other then Ayn Rand. He also offers his opinion on the movies in which were made of Gor, which is quite humerus.

All in all, I found it interesting to read each forward, and listen to someone else’s perceptions of this world called Gor. Jan 10, 2000


Online Revelations

What is the truth of a Gorean man, or female?

Is it they should live their lives in the books, taking each item to heart? As below, that beauty is what would save a woman. Is it in loyalty, the silence of. Action, in which we base a lot of our meetings on, from the net?

Im not quite sure.

I asked a friend of mine today, is it Gorean, or part of Gor in any way.. to be married to a spouse, and keep this, online, and beliefs from that said spouse. Are we entitled to say, because a person would do this, that they aren’t of Gor, Or only apply certain Gorean philosophy to their life because of such restrictions. Most likely they married beforehand, before the books.

But isn’t dishonest?

Do we even know those that we dislike, and if we dislike them do we know why?

I am thinking that last year, I disliked several people, I know on the net. It was by action, that I came to this conclusion on them. I have to ask myself now though, Did I even know them to judge? What if they were not what *I* perceived they were. If so who are they really?

I have always been fairly back in such matters, and didn’t really speak to a lot of channel ops, for a long time. I did my own thing really. The last while I`ve spoken to several. They have been helpful, and listen to what I as a person had to say.

P.s. Thanks JaKil you are a pretty knowledgeable guy, I hope we discuss more :)

I ask many things I know. I guess it is because I with my heart wish to know. I wish to know why some people think they way they do, and how they come to the conclusions in their posts, and actions online.

Is there a purpose, and are they the same online, as they are off. Do they have the same passion I have, which is Gor. Or is it about being a bully? The louder the more dominate. Does a quiet man scream out his strengths? Or is it just who he is.

What is the point of cyber sex, and scening in general? How can that ever compare to flesh and blood? Why would anyone try to attempt to make it so.

Are men really pleased to have a woman dripping all over? Why? Do we take responsibility of another`s actions, on ourselves? I do.



I believe in Gor, I truly do. I believe it is a reality that can be lived, and loved.

I don`t believe though that it means.. running around stating women in chains.. yadda yadda.. FW should be lucky..they are free. I really don’t.

I don’t think what women give is a gift either. Or some valuable trinket in which to lord over men.

I think it just is, the right path for some, to be of Gorean philosophy.

I don`t know who would police actions of all, or who would be able to state what is right or wrong. I only know it should be done somehow, by peers. That some actions should not be tolerated, and silence of such is approval of these actions. I even still see free gals and slaves play silly little games. IE. a slave went around and asked FW the most stupidest question I’ve ever heard. Why?

What was the point?

Besides getting her attention, the slave that is.

I ask for those who wish to share with me to respond to these matters. I know some will not, or none maybe. But I had to ask just the same.


Jan 7, 2000

Trek to Sardar

Tal Folks,
I was recently reading about chronology of Gor, which I found was quite interesting. Anyhow, I came upon this most intriguing bit of info. Goreans, female and male had to make a trek to the ridge of the Sardar. Now, after much digging, and asking, I figured women were not really included in this. Much to my dismay, They are!

So before a Gorean turns 25, they must take this trek. For a free woman we know this to be very dangerous. To leave her own city, and tempt fate. After all, along the road her guards could be overcome by warriors, and they could throw her to the ground in chains. However if she picked a grand time to go, during one of the four fairs, she could leave with a profitable amount of goods, as well as the trek under her belt.

I was thinking that the fair would also present a perfect spot for a companionship. It would solve the mandatory trek for both a male and female, and the women thus would not have to travel back again alone with guards. She would then have the security, or somewhat of security returning with a mate.

Nyre smiles...

The purpose was just to share something fascinating with this board, about free women, and another insight to their daily lives, in a fascinating world called Gor.

Jan 5, 2000


Flanders Fields

For those of you who don`t have seasons, I thought to put something up, as it is coming on winter in my country. Around this time, across Canada, in schools, children are being taught about a very special poem. They are being reminded of why we are able to have schools, shelter, basics, and beyond. We are free, not war torn, like so many other countries in the world. It did take death of many to do so.

Im not sure of a person who hasn’t had a loved one or cousin.. or distant relative that did not serve his country. I am sure there are some, however the majority have ben affected by some loss in that aspect.

Please read and remember the poem below, I am certain most of you have heard it before. Each time I read though, I feel the need to share it with those I feel closest to. :)

In Flanders Fields

In Flanders fields the poppies blow Between the crosses, row on row, That mark our place; and in the sky The larks still bravely singing, fly Scarce heard amid the guns below.

We are the dead. Short days ago We lived, felt dawn, saw sunset glow, Loved and were loved, and now we lie In Flanders Fields. Take up our quarrel with the foe: To you from failing hands we throw The torch; be yours to hold it high. If ye break faith with us who die, We shall not sleep, though poppies grow In Flanders Fields.

by John McCrae - 1915

I`ve been to Flanders Fields. When you stand there and actually see a poppy waving, you realize there really is nothing to say, but cover your hand over your heart, and whisper, thank you.

Enough said.

Nov 99


Of Truth

"The truth you speak has no past and no future. It is, and that`s all it is meant to be.
Richard Bach

Who would of thought one book would lead to twenty five books. That within those books folks would somehow find worth, or value in that text so diligently written so many years ago. Hell, many of us weren’t even through puberty when a man decided to write the chronicles of Tarl Cabot. But it happened just the same.Then something grew, IRC. A whole medium in which to discuss such things. Halls, and taverns, and chambers oh my! You have such a vast population now interacting online. Many married, many divorced, yet all co existing. It seems for the most part there are not many similarities in the different factions. One fellow believes that the philosophy is perceived one way, and others another way. Construed and applied to their own needs. Some have even grown thrones, go figure. Created are bots that are sleens, and slaves with ops. Women of the panther girl tribes, Turians, folks from Treve, a whole virtual world, plucked fresh from the books. There are maps, and directions of clothing and how to fashion them to the letter. There are male slaves, yes they do exist, I`ve seen them. A complete dance troupe of sensual women writhing under the lash of the whip. Last, the service, of Paga, blackwine, kalana, and all the other items that would be found, yes in the pages of the books. The thing is its not about the serves, or the dances. Its all about people. Why do they love so much here.. yet nothing in reality. Why are they able to own a handful of slaves here, and never date a woman, or approach a woman in reality? Why is it that a lot of the women that are here have some major issues in their lives. What makes the philosophy safe haven for men and women. Basic living, connecting mentally and emotionally. For you have to take turns to answer a reply here. You have to read the words of another to respond. The rules are clear. No dice, and no go to jail cards. Men rule this piece of world. Women beg to serve, and please them with their lives. No complications in that statement. It is too blunt to be confusing.

I see so many folks say "I am Gorean," and for the longest time I could not figure out how someone could be Gorean. Through reason, and perception of reality, there is no planet. There were no slaves. I asked an old friend the other day why he was no longer around, did it no longer please him to be Gorean. He smiled at me and said.. I am not Gorean, I am of Gor. How could I refute that. Rather then thinking he is some character following word for word he has chosen to follow who he was in the first place, and that Gor has simply added a name to what he was doing all the while. The ideals of Gor.We know living day to day that times are changing rapidly. The young are coming into their own, and its hard to determine what state the world will be like in another twenty years. Out there are ideals set so long ago, they have encompassed all direction of what a relationship should be.Most women married a spouse who suited "their" needs. They have this preset design of what a life with a man will be. Frankly, it has nothing to do with slavery, or being chained to a couch at night. It was for the most part, and still is an equal footing. You do the dishes, and I will do the laundry. You raise the children, and I will bring in the paycheck. Support me unconditionally please. Just a few examples. The incredible thing is we know folks have brought this philosophy of Norman`s to their lives. Furthermore, It has worked for them. Success!

Why has it worked, what is it that makes it work?

22:457
Gorean desire. It was so powerful, so ruthless, so absolutely uncompromising.

It worked for them, and theirs because individuals weighted the choice of what they required to bring them a completeness. They were honest and up front about the people they were. There was no deception, or in the closet hiding. These people rose above, and communicated. Men did not wait a turn to "share" what they would like, or even what was acceptable. They simple stated it. Take it or leave it. These men took back the control of what they required in life, to live.It works under very simple conditions, A man is in charge and fully in control of his life, and his home. A woman is to be pleasing, not some of the time, not once upon a time, all the time.

Now here is where things don`t fit correctly. Women became two things, free and slave. Two very separate areas.

3:205
In every woman there is something of the Free Companion and something of the slave girl.

10:10
The basic characteristic of a ... woman is, interestingly, femaleness;....

There has always been the suggestion of consistency and actions. We have two choices when really there is only one choice. I could not even count on my fingers how many times I hear, well to be true to your nature, Nyre you are really slave underneath those robes, and sooner or later you will beg to be shown this. All I can say is.. it is subjective. It is of my opinion women do wish to please. They enjoy giving, and within that, they receive. For me, it is fulfilling to know I was part of making something bright in giving what ever was needed in the first place. It doesn’t make me slave, or free. It makes me a woman. I don`t even think it has to do with the philosophy of Gor. Merely that I require it. I also require the ability to continue nurturing relationships I have made online. The reason is this, I have worth and have offered my time to listen to others. In turn they have listened to me. Communication. It’s a beautiful thing.I also know that the only person that could enslave me, is me.It is my free will that would allow such a choice.

2:54
Gorean women, whether slave or free, know that their simple presence brings joy to men, and I cannot but think that this pleases them.

I realize that people actually believe in killing characters online, in the fear of forced collars, and in the fear they could lose control. Totally untrue.A person can not be forced to do something that is not within them. It is choice. If I was asked what I love the most about being of Gor, the answer is so very simple. I am expected to be a better person in the eyes of my peers by taking responsibly. To stand by my choices, to live with faith in the men that have taken what was always theirs.

6:244
She drew back, reproachfully, "Would you not rather be my Ubar, than my Master?" she asked. I looked at her, "yes," I said, "I would." "You are both," she pronounced, again kissing me."Ubara," I whispered to her."Yes," she whispered, "I am your Ubara -- and your slave girl."

Aug 1,99


Overcoming Conditioning

In the game of worlds, he said, we are not Important Hunters Of Gor Page 10

The last weeks I've read a great deal from the Gorean boards. The topics ranging from free women under the veils, to changing Gor, and concerning panther women. Their rights and how they should be given voice to attain them.

What the heck does this have to do with living and believing in the Gorean philosophy? I think people are missing the point. Folks! It is not the stories we create ourselves by. We are , who we are. John Norman is not a Christ, but a scribe. His books are not the bible, but a collection of stories he tells from his viewpoint.

A freewoman is not a collective group of persons that is boxed into one mind. Each individual is different, unique to her own needs. The process of learning and understanding Gorean philosophy is not who can create Verna, Bosk, Priest Kings. We can not possibly be these characters. We can not pick out only the phrases we like, and ignore those not so pleasant.

I grew up conditioned that men should be the perfect gentleman, opening the door of a car, sending flowers on all occasions. Teamwork.. 50/50, monogamy. Respect.A man with out a woman would be a sad man, who would run his life, his house, his heart. Yet this equation is simply not working out there in reality.

Instead we have a nation of unsatisfied men and women. It is obvious that many basics are lost, in todays times. Gorean Philosophy to me, always grounded things. Foundation, control, stability, and yes safety. Trusting persons that were of simular mindset to me. Knowledge.

Asking if a free woman is truly slave once and for all under her veils.. to me is like stating.. do slaves really have a dog kennel accurately like that on gor.. and do they leave the comforts of silk sheets and queen sized beds to go for their night sleep? It generalizes all of us, and we know we are all individuals, each with specific needs. Some unable to want to live gorean philosophy.

The stories of John Norman are excellent examples of what life would be on gor if such a place existed. An excellent format to use and to understand.

It can not be changed though to fit the uncomfortable, the unbendable. Gor does not bend for women, nor will it ever. It is a difficult process of letting go of what we were taught to be, taught to think. To embrace the natural order. I think when women realize it is ok, truly ok, to again be sensual, loving, supportive, nurturing, and trusting, The path to natural order and over coming conditioning will be clear. Seek that path and the truth of what needs you require.. be it slave or Free will be impacted. Live in the books and the path with lead to laughter.

Respectfully ,
Nyre

01-25- 99