The symbolism behind the BDSM logo

“The Symbolism Behind the BDSM Logo” was written for BDSMforyou.nl by Mistress Moriah.

If you’ve been part of the BDSM scene for a while, you’re probably familiar with the BDSM logo. The first time I came across this logo was quite a few years ago. Back in my “party days,” during one of those fun evenings, I noticed a man wearing a unique piece of jewelry or a tattoo (to be honest, I don’t remember exactly which). It looked like the yin-yang symbol, but then again, it didn’t. It fascinated me, so I asked about it. He replied, “What do you think it is?” I answered, “It looks like the yin-yang symbol.” He grinned and replied, “It looks like it, but it isn’t. But if you don’t know, I’m not going to tell you…” In hindsight, that’s a shame, because it might have made my search for my true self a lot easier. But apparently, I had my own path to walk here.

BDSM logo

The fact that I can still remember this – seemingly insignificant incident – some 30 years later says something about my fascination (or my insatiable curiosity, which wasn’t satisfied at the time). I now know what symbol it must have been: the BDSM logo. Deliberately designed to be subtle so it doesn’t stand out, yet easily recognizable to those in the know. And the resemblance to the yin-yang symbol is therefore no “coincidence.” Steve Quagmyre came up with the idea (sometime in the 1990s) to design a special symbol for BDSM based on the yin-yang symbol. This way, it would be mysterious, yet not attract too much attention from outsiders, while remaining recognizable to insiders.

Personally, I think the basis in the yin-yang symbol goes beyond merely being “mysterious and low-key.” BDSM, too, revolves around an exchange of opposing energies, just like yin and yang. I can’t help but feel that this certainly played a role in Steve’s choice. However, I’ve never asked him, so I’m just making an assumption here.

Triskelion

However, there is more symbolism to be discovered in the logo. The three parts of the logo represent the three main groups that make up the letters BDSM: Bundation & Discipline, Dominance & Submission, and Sadism & Masochism. However, the three parts also symbolize the foundation of BDSM (which distinguishes BDSM from abuse), namely the three conditions: Safe, Sane, Consensual (Or in Dutch: Safe, Voluntary, and Sensible).

Thirdly, you could see the three main roles: Top, Bottom, and Switch.

White dots

You also see three dots. I read somewhere that these symbolize the imperfection of every human being. Was this actually conceived by Steve? No idea. Personally, I believe that perfection lies hidden in the loving acceptance of imperfection. Can there still be any question of imperfection (or perfection) in that context? No idea. It’s also possible that the dots symbolize the core, your deeper self. The human within the human. But to be honest, I haven’t been able to find anything about that. The circle surrounding the symbol is said to represent the BDSM scene, a group that protects itself.

Ultimately, it comes down to what you take from it for yourself (just like in the whole of BDSM and/or life). Perhaps you have a different perspective on this symbol and would like to share it with us? I’d love to read your response in the comments.

More information

What is BDSM?
The History of BDSM
BDSM – Theme page

Source

Text: Mistress Moriah
Photography: 123rf.com