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Blink 3 of 8 - The 5 AM Club
by Robin Sharma
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The Truth summary
An Uncomfortable Book About Relationships
14 mins
Brief summary
'The Truth' by Neil Strauss is a memoir that explores the author's journey to discover the truth about relationships and himself. He reflects on his past experiences with women and delves into the complexities of modern dating culture.
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The Truth
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Key idea 1 of 6
Polyamory – the act of loving multiple partners – can be enjoyed spiritually or by swinging.
Have you ever heard of polyamory? Many haven’t. Nonetheless, this word, brought to prominence by New Age writer Morning Glory Zell-Ravenheart, refers to the practice of loving multiple people simultaneously. It developed as a reaction against monogamous society and the stresses of marriage within it.
After all, would you rather be monogamously but unhappily married or in a partnership that allows you to share your love with others and gives your partner freedom to do the same?
But polyamory isn’t just about sex. In fact, many people stress its spiritual side. So, instead of viewing it simply as a way to have sex with multiple partners, you should see polyamory as a way of concentrating on the finer, more spiritual aspects of love.
It can foster compassion and understanding between partners, utterly banishing the judgment and shame that often surround self-exploration and desire in monogamous culture. If a relationship does become sexual, this spiritual base enables complete openness between partners, making sex a holy experience that transcends the word’s smutty connotations.
But embracing the spiritual side of polyamory can seem weird to some. That’s why many people choose to explore this world through swinging. The problem is that swinging has earned itself a bad reputation as a seedy practice and members of the polyamorous community tend to instead call their life practice The Lifestyle, thus asserting their commitment to living a life of sexual adventure.
However, that doesn’t mean people living The Lifestyle should view it as a free pass to have sex however they please. In fact, boundaries and rules are essential because they let people know what they can and can’t do. With clear rules in place, each partner is free to enjoy The Lifestyle through a trusting, shame-free relationship that they know is strong.
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What is The Truth about?
The Truth (2015) takes a close look at relationships, sex and trust, unpacking our assumptions about sex and arguing that monogamy may not be right for everyone.
The Truth Review
The Truth (2015) is a captivating memoir by Neil Strauss, taking readers on a journey of personal transformation and self-discovery. Here's why this book is worth reading:
- Entertaining and thought-provoking, it explores the author's quest for answers about relationships and love, offering unique insights and unconventional approaches.
- Through real-life experiences and encounters with experts, the book delves into the dynamics of attraction, intimacy, and the challenges of modern relationships.
- An honest and relatable narrative keeps the reader engaged, ensuring that the book is anything but boring.
Best quote from The Truth
The thing about swinging is that it strengthens good relationships and destroys bad ones.
—Neil Strauss
Who should read The Truth?
- Couples
- People seeking a partner
- Anyone who has questioned monogamy
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The Truth FAQs
What is the main message of The Truth?
The main message of The Truth is about the author's journey to understand and navigate relationships and his search for authenticity.
How long does it take to read The Truth?
The estimated reading time for The Truth is several hours. You can also read the Blinkist summary in just 15 minutes.
Is The Truth a good book? Is it worth reading?
The Truth is worth reading because it offers unique insights into relationships and personal growth, making it a thought-provoking and enlightening read.
Who is the author of The Truth?
The author of The Truth is Neil Strauss.
What to read after The Truth?
If you're wondering what to read next after The Truth, here are some recommendations we suggest:
- Opening Up by Tristan Taormino
- Emergency by Neil Strauss
- The Game by Neil Strauss
- Attached by Amir Levine and Rachel S. F. Heller
- Getting The Love You Want by Harville Hendrix
- The Moral Animal by Robert Wright
- The Smart Girl's Guide to Polyamory by Dedeker Winston
- The Power of Instinct by Leslie Zane
- Help Me, I Have No Discipline and Zero Self-Control by Vaughn Carter
- Playing the Whore by Melissa Gira Grant