Is sexual repression good or bad for creativity?

anonymous: Is sexual repression good or bad for creativity?
I thought I read/heard that it’s sexual repression that fuels creative drive. Do you think this is true?
It seems that the fantasy can create so much more fuel than actual reality. Thus, this view would support the idea that repression does feed creativity.

Answers and Views:

Answer by theoriginalimac
it might be like that old cliche you see in sporting movies about never having sex when you’re on a roll, or even before a big game cos it’ll mess with your head.

bull durham made a meal out of this theme and the tension was palpable.

i would think it would be good in the short term but don’t cling onto it too long otherwise it’ll stop being beneficial.

Answer by Dan H
I’ve heard of this, but never really put much stock into it. I write music and find that my best creative spurts come shortly after sex. To me, sex allows me to relax (not to mention the boost of self confidence that goes along with it!), allowing the creative process to be more natural.

Could be all in my head, though.

Answer by Mogollon Dude
I’d say it depends on the person .

Answer by Lord of Misrule
Consider the Shakers. They advocated celibacy, and the furniture, crafts and architecture they produced is regarded as some of the best ever made in America. All that sexual energy was sublimated and re-channeled into creative ventures. Also consider the French author Honore de Balzac, who famously quipped after making love, “There goes another novel.”

Answer by Anpadh
Sexually repressive societies (such as the US) promote this belief mostly because a great number of artistes are sexually promiscuous.

Answer by Lynne B
I think it depends on the circumstances. Sometimes I need to feel well balanced, not desiring anything to let my creativity to come through. Other times it is in complete frustration that it bursts through. So good question to ponder.

Answer by smileythims
It’s bad for creativity….

Answer by jack k
That is entirely up to the artist. Some find it saps them and reduces their ability to create,and others(like myself) find that they are rejuvenated and refreshed and ready to go

Answer by gjmb1960
for good sex you need creativity

Answer by Shades of Grey
LOL! Maybe it feeds creativity for sexual fantasies ~ still lol! For everything else, tho, I don’t think so… Because, if you’ve got someone / something sexual on your mind, it’s so difficult to think of anything else!

Maybe would work for those with more mental fortitude than I, tho…