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Strangely enough, Daniel's wedding day didn't upset me at all. It was his 30th birthday six months later which really got to me, as he stood there with his wife Alison while they greeted the guests. I can honestly say that that was the only time when I felt real envy and wished desperately that it was me standing beside him, arms round each other as we showed the world how much we loved each other.
It's not as if I'm not allowed to love Daniel, but the way we feel about each other isn't something that we can share easily with anyone else. Daniel is my brother, but since I was 14 we've had a sexual relationship - and that's not something that many people would feel comfortable with.
I've only ever spoken about this once before, and even then it was very much in the abstract. While I was still at university a friend had a major misunderstanding with a relatively new boyfriend when one of his friends had reported back to him that he'd seen her hugging and kissing another man in the union bar. She was firstly annoyed at being questioned and became even more exasperated when she explained that the man in question was her brother, as her boyfriend refused to believe her. Their loud discussion took place in the union with an interested audience, until he finally stamped out in fury, still refusing to believe her. As she flounced back to join us she made a remark about preferring her brother to any other man, whereupon one of the crowd said “Yuck, how pervy!” As she sat down beside me she muttered something like “It's not that strange,” and three or four drinks later I quietly asked her what she'd meant.
Fuelled by drink or maybe just rage, she started talking in a very intense but hushed way about how close siblings could be, going on to say that she was sure that many people experimented sexually with them as they grew up and then simply grew out of it. She said it was like practising your social skills on your family and so long as it was mutual, she couldn't see the harm. I didn't say much - partly because I couldn't believe that I'd met someone who seemed to be like me - and she very quickly clammed up and moved over to talk to someone else and never brought up the subject again.
I think the only reason that I'm talking about it now is to emphasise that I truly believe that she was right - it doesn't happen to everyone but it happens to some, and I don't want to be made to feel guilty about it. Incest is so often spoken about in the same breath as abuse, but if you're close in age and equal in relationship terms then it's entirely different. Of course abuse happens, but it can happen in any sexual relationship and there's an expectation that a family member would never hurt you in the way that someone else could. There's no comparison between siblings close in age having sexual feelings and contact and an adult forcing a younger member of the family to do something they neither understand nor want to be involved in. I think incest is traditionally seen as bad, but in some cultures that isn't the case. When I was small I asked a Sunday school teacher if Adam and Eve's children married each other since they were the first people on earth. She just laughed and didn't reply. Having children with Daniel was never an issue and we were always careful about contraception.
All my memories of my relationship with Daniel are good. He's only a year older than me and we've always been close, especially since we always seemed to be full of nonsense compared with our older sister Jane. She's four years older than Daniel and very studious and focused, while he's bursting with fun and light-hearted enthusiasm. I've adored him for as long as I can remember and my parents were always delighted by our closeness when we were small. We shared friends and moved happily in the same social circles, so I could never understand girls who didn't get on with their brothers.
Things changed when I was 14. I had spent hours getting ready for my first Christmas dance when I knocked on Daniel's bedroom door. It's a dodgy age as you're trying to come to terms with your developing body and worry endlessly about how you look, so his wolf whistle was very welcome as he swept me into his arms and we pirouetted, laughing, around the room, before going downstairs to show off our finery to our parents and Jane.
Daniel's appreciation really helped my confidence and I was aware of him smiling approvingly as boy after boy asked me up to dance, though my greatest pleasure was when he claimed me for the last dance. We giggled home to gossip and hot chocolate with our parents and by the next day all the finery was discarded and life was back to normal.
On New Year's Eve Daniel went to a party and by the time he got home I was already asleep. I was extremely sleepy when he crept into my room and curled up on my bed, which was something we'd both done for years, especially if we wanted to share some snippet of gossip. When he started stroking my hair and face it was a surprise, but I could feel myself drifting pleasurably back to sleep as he caressed me gently. Then I became aware of his hand drifting lower and suddenly I was wide awake as he stroked my neck and started sliding his hand down my vest top. I wasn't scared but I was surprised as he started stroking me, though my overriding sensation was one of sheer pleasure. I instinctively lifted my mouth to his as he kissed me and then he hugged me very tightly and left.
I lay in complete confusion with my mind racing and my body totally turned on. All the sex education I'd had said that this was wrong, that it was abuse and incest. But it hadn't felt wrong and I certainly hadn't felt forced. Rather, I felt that Daniel had stopped long before I'd wanted him to. It was hours before I finally fell asleep but I was sure of two things - that I'd really enjoyed it and I still adored my brother.
The next morning it was clear that Daniel had a hangover but as he grinned up at me from his prone position on the couch there was no awkwardness or regret between us. We didn't discuss what had happened, but went for a long walk that afternoon with Jane and the dog and everything felt the same, down to Jane chiding us about being irresponsible about leaving our parents to do all the tidying up after new year's dinner.
Over the next few years we had sexual encounters every six months or so, each time going farther and farther until I was 17, when we had full sex for the first time. We both went out with other people and there was never any jealousy, although I found it hard to be physically intimate with anyone else. Part of that was because sex with Daniel was so amazing that I had no patience for all the fumbling that seemed to happen with other boys. The sex was never pre-planned, but just always seemed to happen when there was no chance of being discovered.
Every so often I would wonder what people would think if they found out, especially our parents, but it always felt so right and was so exciting that these concerns were never enough to stop me. Sometimes he initiated sex and sometimes I did, but in between times our relationship was as easy, relaxed and affectionate as ever, with the incredible passion of each encounter quietly banked away until the next time.
I missed Daniel when he went to university, but went to stay with him every three months or so. Sometimes we would have sex and at other times neither of us seemed interested. By the time he met Alison he was working and I was a student, and I knew that this relationship was different, but it still came as a shock when he told me he wanted to marry her. However, I was more shocked when he said: “You only have to say and I won't marry her, but then I want us to stay together and not see anyone else. We could be the old boring brother and sister who never got married, but ended up sharing a house because no one else would have them! I know this is meant to be wrong but I've never felt anything so right.” This echoed everything that I've thought about our incestuous relationship over the years. After hours of discussion we agreed that it was time to stop the sexual side of our relationship and also decided that telling anyone else was a bad idea, parting in tears afterwards.
I know Daniel loves Alison, but she's very wary of me. I'm pretty sure that she doesn't see me as a sexual threat, but she thinks of me as an emotional rival and I suppose she's right. It's not unusual - there are countless people dealing with all the emotions that result from partners becoming officially family.
I have wondered if there will ever come a time when I'll look back on my relationship with Daniel in disgust, but I don't think so. Everyone has relationships where the sexual element has ended but a great friendship remains, and that's as good a way as any of summing up what's happened with us. Daniel has a unique place in my affections, as I do with him, and that will never change.
As an academic I have a tendency to draw logical conclusions. I like to see a pattern and resolution, so it does pain me that what appears so lovely and natural to me would be regarded as abhorrent by most people. It's not my subject, but I would be really interested to see a study on incest done on these terms, moving it away entirely from the concept of abuse. However, I simply cannot imagine that many people are happy to talk about it and I certainly wouldn't put my family through hell by being the first to go public.
Three months ago I met Derek and I think this is going to be a lasting relationship. The sex is certainly amazing and he's a warm and lovely man, so I have high hopes for this. The trouble with having someone like Daniel in your life is that it leaves you with very high expectations, but it's hard knowing that the one person you love above everything is out of bounds. Perhaps worst of all is the fact that you can't tell anyone, as his or her disgust would ruin everything.
Names have been changed. As told to Joan McFadden
I have nothing but respect for you.
J, London, UK
i think this is a porn story as its narrats. anyway we can't accept it b'se if we accept it,it will be a promotion and the next generation will more relaxed and they will even think that sex with mother is not a problem. then v will just like an animal. diff between animal and man is v got culture
cinto, liverpool,
Your brother took advantage of you when you were 14 -- a child. It seemed like you were in a loving relationship, but you were not. Daniel had sex with someone secretly with no responsibilities. I'm quite sure his wife would like to know about this. Is Daniel going to encurage this for his kids?
Rosa, NYC, USA
I can totally see a brother/sister relationship in that way ending up being a healthy situation. I dont suggest we judge this one. Society has deemed this adnormal, as with so many things. You alone decide what is acceptable and what is not.
kay, Camas, USA
If it isn't wrong, why does she feel so much guilt? Weird story, but there may be more to the story than meets the surface. Could she have fear of intimacy with others coz of abuse, for example? This story has more to it than meets the surface, as incest is more morally complex than homosexuality.
Kel, Ireland, UK
um, a little sick and quite nuts.
Jack, uxbridge, usa
I don't condemn the writer, but I am amazed at the fact that the majority here considers this kind of relationship healthy. Incest produces a lot of pain and guilt (and even abuse), please consult any shrink that has treated these cases. Would you get laid with your brother/sister?
Pablo, Houston, USA
Suppose they had a child, but it suffered no birth defects; wud that make it ok to everyone who feels it's wrong? Even then, is it wrong for 2 unrelated ppl who are both passive carriers of a genetic disease to procreate, as they are more likely to have a disabled child? How about calling them sick?
Smon, Belfast,
To those religious bigots who say incest is morally wrong, I've got one thing to say to you: ABRAHAM & SARAH... you know, from the Bible?! They were siblings. And if you believe the Genesis creation story, Adam and Eve's children must have committed incest too. Wake up and smell the hypocrisy!!
Christine, Medford, OR, USA
What a lovely article. I'd like to thank the lady for writing about her relationship so honestly. It's interesting to me that something I think is very common, is something that so many people get all het up about. I don't have a problem with it - and it's legal in some countries! Thanks again.
Zarich, London, uk
If this is healthy then why the secrecy??? Both brother and sister will always live with the guilt and doubt until they get some deep long term counseling. They are also living a lie by keeping this from their partners.
Alex , Phoenix , USA
Personally, I am disgusted. The way it's told is like a porno.
Everyone has a right to their stories and experiences, but there has to be boundaries somewhere! Why not in the family? Also, these are not consenting adults; they were two children. Why was a 14yr old hungover?
Oh Please!!
Yolande, Connecticut, USA
A sweet story. I can imagine having feelings for my sibling if they were nearer my age. I'm not sure. I can't see any harm if there was no chance of children. I'm glad by how many enlightened people there are here. Forget the extremists.
David, Manchester, UK
The fact that the person you were sleeping with was your brother aside, you still did wrong as you were both cheating and lying to your partners. Also isn't it wrong to be doing something that your parents would clearly disapprove of under their roof?
Jen, London,
Despite the intellectual 'yay' as it were I get the feeling that this is innately discordant with what occurs naturally. What with sex being for re-procreation, and associated pleasure for bonding parents. I can see how their bond affects Alison, but unfortunately the sister is no ordinary ex.
Sophie, London,
I must say, negative comments aside, it makes me happy to see so many encouraging, enlightened people who understand that if something makes one happy, without causing others pain, one should be allowed to continue it unmolested by moral bigotry and high-mindedness.
Evan, Oxford, UK
It's not as if children are involved...???
Rebecca, Madrid, Spain
Morally and emotionally, as long as the people involved are consenting and adult, I think its great!
The only reason society discourages this activity is because children born of such relationships can after generations become mutated and develop disease or other problems such as down syndrome.
Chris Kirk, Worthing,
Really I don't see any problem with this - it's not as if children are involved. If people love each other, and aren't harming anyone else, then it shouldn't be anyone else's concern. I think it's a shame they broke up, but I hope the woman involved can find happiness elsewhere.
Cat, Plymouth,
I'm a gay man, so am used to the dishonesty of the "publicizing it means promoting it" brigade, who seek to pathologize most or all types of non-standard sexual congress. But I do wonder if sibling incest can ordinarily be attributed to pre-disposition (nature) or whether nurture factors are at play
Ortelius, London,
we live in a cruel world in which social morality and biological factors set restrictions on our behaviours no matter in love or other activities.
samuel, Suzhou, China
I see a lot of religious bigots, who are brainwashed into accepting the so called normal.We only adhere to the normal, due to biological reasons of birth defects.
Accept people in families can and do love each other!
Religions judge , and threaten ! good reason to do away with religion.
jonathan rose, great torrington, uk
Anthony writes, "All you morally outraged lot make me laugh." Hear, Hear - I agree! The outrage is similar to the 'slipery-slope' ideology of American radical conservatives. They think if one person does something different, then everyone will follow and all will be lost. They rule by fear...
Kellie, Jacksonville, United States
Love is in short supply in this judgemental, painful and cruel world. I hate how much worse the religeous make the planet. Pity we couldnt ship them somewhere else to judge and moralise and hate each other. Good luck to this woman and her bro who have found a glimmer of love in a cesspit of moralism
mark j, belfast, uk
Anthony writes, "All you morally outraged lot make me laugh." Here, Here - I agree! The outrage is similar to the 'slipery-slope' ideology of American radical conservatives. They think if one person does something different, then the whole world will follow and all will be lost. They rule by fear...
Kellie, Jacksonville, United States
Just goes to show, consent and understanding trump any rule, and those who choose their morals based on nothing but squeamishness have a stunted sense of right and wrong.
Good, honest, moving writing. Stay true.
G Davies, Somerset, England
when does it stop?today its ur brother, tomorrow ur father...how many ppl out there would have sex with THEM?i think its sick, even if u feel good about it.theres a reason biological mutations are more likely in offspring born from incest.coz its wrong!this isnt progress, its promoting the perverse
Anna, Athens, Greece
Jerry! Jerry! Jerry!!
(Audience chant from "The Jerry Springer Show" when something outrageous happens...)
Dave Ferro, Dayton, Ohio, USA
If so many are repulsed by this couple's actions, why did they take the time to read the entire article, and then bother to take more time to submit a comment? Judge not, lest ye be judged. Live and let live. Mind your own business. Leave the final say to a higher power.
Janet Larson, Phoenix, USA
I think this is why incest is forbidden -- the relationship between these two siblings has resulted in confusion and guilt. They seem to have fallen in love but know they can't tell anyone and certainly can't marry and be openly together. A very sad story.
Jenny, Austin, TX, USA
Nothing wrong in wanting to be with the one you love. People should be allowed to lead their own lives without fear of being prosecuted by society at large.
Elke Nel, Pretoria, South Africa
i understand what it is like. i've been in a similar situation with my cousin who i respect. its true its like experiment. but unlike u i still feel guilty and that its wrong. i enjoyed it at the time but then cried for days sum1 found out and threatened to tell my family about it. ur not the only 1
alisha, leeds,
Your one messed-up girl!
I'd hate to fall for you...
A Fouche , Thaba , SA
Good luck to you. This hurts no-one, but I hope all the negative and hurtful comments won't colour your views of what seems to be a relationship full of love, pleasure and respect. I don't think God will have any problem with this.
Mike, London,
No-one has the right to tell the woman writing this piece that she is wrong.
Everyone's sexual and emotional make-up is different. It seems to me to be rather arrogant to tell her her feelings are ' wrong'.
Richard, Groningen, Netherlands
This disturbs me. Not only do I think that the older brother used a bit of that boy charm and manipulation, but I think this woman has some type of mental deficiency that he used to his advantage. I wonder what type of rearing went on in their home in order for them to be accepting of this?
talia, ft lauderdale, usa
This is the must disturbing piece i have ever read. I believe this young woman was nothing but exploited but a confused and perverse older brother. I have two older brothers and get immediately turned off by someone im interested in that remotely reminds me of either of them... God help them.
Kristen, Charlotte, USA
This is the most disgusting thing I've ever heard of. I'm 32, adore my brother, but would NEVER EVER have sex with him. Give your head a shake woman. You and your brother need some serious psychological help. Twisted and warped.
Lynn, Prince George,
I think this sounds like a girl who has been manipulated by her older brother and who is deeply torn due to her adoration of him. The pain of this has led her to repress the trauma of this abuse, and use rationalisation as a defence mechanism: we take too many things at face value.
Fiona, Liverpool, UK
My 2nd great-grandfather had a daugher who married her uncle. They were pioneers. You either married within the group or you married the natives. That wouldn't bother me today, but I think they thought it was worse than incest. I don't see any reason to live with guilt. Nobody was hurt. Be happy.
Joy Pero, Pomona, USA
Bravo. What a lot of silly bother the stigma over incest is. Perhaps there are sound evolutionary forces that have created an innate distaste for such things, but humans are perfectly capable of overriding impulses that basically boil down to taste. What a shame the two of you must be apart.
George, London, UK
If God is Love, then all who Love are Godly.
victor.compton, Cherbourg, France
this is unjustifyable cause incest is incest.Welcome to hell
Barrow jarra, stockholm, sweden
This piece is fiction. The psychological and emotional repercussions would have been far more destabilising than the writer conveys. Society has taboos, not just for genetic reasons, but also for psychological ones: intimacy within birth families does not equate with sex. Even Nietzshce went crazy.
Margot Cornelius, Manchester, Lancs
it's realy weird life....she/he should consult to psychiatrist .....
no religious people would allowed....
onny iqbal, samarinda, indonesia
INNNTERESTING. I USED to think that intimate relationships among siblings were "wrong" but after reading this article, it opened my mind to a whole 'nother level! I commend the sister in telling her story. Pro-choice in everything. Why rules and boundaries? They just keep our minds close and robotic
Krystal , Orange County, USA
Human is the most intelligent and social creature on the earth.Animals do sex in the family without any obligation and feeling guilty. They just do sex without knowing relationship between them.
If Human does such things then it is very difficult to differentiate us with them. Soul cann't accept it
Jack, Canton, US
Once upon a time people who married each other were called royalty. Now they're called criminals.
I'm torn on this - universal condemnation of incest is based on the genetic consequences, so use of proper protection seems to rule out that basis.
Still, I couldn't imagine it. WAY too weird.
Ted Tyro, Canberra, Australia
I have mixed feelings on this. But I guess at the end of the day, if you both felt it was okay, then it's okay. As long as you don't judge each other, then I don't see the harm. It's a pity your sexual side to the relationship came to an end though. He shouldn't have married her.
Lynne, Edinburgh, Scotland
In our preteens, up until about 13, my cousin and I used to experiment.
Religion imposes all sorts of silly rules, which then get ingrained in our culture. If both parties say yes, then what's the harm!
Ingrid, Hastings,
I'm sorry, I don't consider myself a judgemental person when it comes to sex topics (transgender, transvestites, bisexuals) whatever. But come on is there no boundaries? I mean the fact that he was drunk the first time you did stuff seems wrong. I'm willing to hear more though as to this case.
Kim Bangert, Lancaster, Lancaster County
Have you talked to a professional about it, I know a lot of women don't think it's rape until they talk to someone. Just b/c it felt good doesn't mean it might not still be hurtful to you. Also how old were you when you started this like 15? B/c at that age was your brother taking advantage of you?
Kim Bangert, Lancaster, Lancaster County
Hypocritical comments! Every kid plays "sexual" games with other kids (sometimes siblings) and yet everyone "forgets" it once childhood is over and makes ashamed those who remember.
Nick, TA, Israel
All you morally outraged lot make me laugh. Christian ethos allows for compassion and understanding and forgiveness above all.
Fantastic, well written article, good luck to the author and family.
Anthony, Manchester, UK
Most wouldn't understand or care to. Never abuse in our home as children, sexually or otherwise. But when my oldest sister was 26 and I was 21, decades ago, at her apartment, we bonded in bed. We now have spouses, happily, and do on special occasion consent in private, using proper birth control.
Mark, Indiana, USA
"The next morning it was clear that Daniel had a hangover"
I don't condemn either one, but I find that disturbing.
Last paragraph is sad. You don't see a problem with it, but I can't help but hear someone struggling because of their brother's drunk actions.
Jenn, TX, USA,
Once we had a restrictive sexual morality.
It changed. 1st divorce was not a big deal anymore, then premarital, adultery, then homosex., then sado, open marria., poligamy. Now incest, pedophilia and zoophilia?
Family = base of society. Society is crumbling. Taboos are there for a reason.
Pablo, Houston, USA
If it is (a) consensual, and (b) if all precautions are taken to prevent an unwanted pregnancy, why should inter-sibling incest be frowned upon? It is part and parcel of sexual experimentation by youngsters all over the world.
Hank, Cape Town, SA
I think can understand how these things happen. I have a cousin who's only a month older than me, I've never been as close to anyone as I was to him when we were younger. Had he come to me with sexual intent I'm not sure I would have turned him away, though I can't imagine being the instigator.
HK, Manchester, UK
Incest is not just socially unacceptable. It is morally wrong.
Schrodinger, Toronto, Canada
The idea that 'no-one was hurt' is bizarre. She still loves her brother above everything, bad for her new relationship & thus for boyfriend and her. She's her sister-in-law's emotional rival. Her bro's marriage, and thus her bro, are affected. Honesty compromised all round. Everyone hurt, surely!
JW, Istanbul, Turkey
we really dont know whats going on with or minds and emotions, and i dont blame you guy to feel the way you feelpeople are people and it just so happens you guy where family i to have thoughts but for my cousin and i push then aside, why are people gay why are people killers, its all in the mind
mya, st.louis, mo
Explain why water is wet or why the sky is blue. And just what ARE those Nazca Lines?
We DO NOT know everything and there are Universal Laws that we cannot explain or intellectualize. They simply are there for our own good and for the harmony in our species. Free will - given and can be taken away
jjstark, g,
I agree with the point about self restraint. What is the purpose of having family? As someone who knows, my brother who I shared a room with, came onto me, stimulating lustful thoughts, which were directed away from him later on, but unfortunately towards my sister. I regret being so intimate now.
RC, london, uk
Each mind encompasses a whole different world... If she's happy and in sync with her emotions, and she's corresponded.. good for her! It's hard to find and enter into lasting and nourishing relationships, so if found one with her sibling, who won't betray or hurt her, let her be happy, I would say
Rafael V, Mexico City, Mexico
go for it girl if he is ONE yhoo LOVE then o for it dont care what other people think!!! GO FOR IT
emily, Oswestry, uk
Thankyou to the people who have positively commented on this. Can all these guys quoting bible extracts please take it somwhere else? What they did wasn't wrong, they didn't hurt anyone else and they both came out of it with positive memories. WHY IS THAT A BAD THING?!
Well written article btw :D
Sam, London, England
I Know my comment will just be another on these lines, but I want to have my say.
I think that your relationship is not wrong, and you should never be made to feel guilty about it. You had a relationship and it was a healthy one. Go with what you feel is best for you and not what others think.
Oscar, Australia, Australia
Get off the religious high horse - God will judge them IF he sees fit. Get off the medical bit as well - no children were made.
Love is love. Sorry if you cant accept it, its just the way it is. If she and her brother chose to be intimate without coercion or abuse then by all means good for them.
Roxanne Mackenzie, Chicago, USA
It's their business and no one else's.Two teens experimenting, contraception used, no control issues- so what's the worry? And how many marriages *don't* have big secrets hanging over them?
It's funny how those who believe in invisible friends in burning bushes think their holy books apply to all.
Mika, London, UK
When I was a kid, I had a crush on my first cousin. I still think about it sometimes. I take the lady at her word that it was what was.
Name withheld, St. Petersburg, USA
I think this poor woman has been manipulated by an older brother who she obviously adored. The whole thing has left a bad taste in my mouth. Hopefully she'll be able to move past the experience and have some semblance of a normal life. He seems to have managed with no problems - hmm, funny that.
stephanie, London, England
What a beautiful story.
I had the most loving friendship with my sister. Physical love was unthinkable in our orthodox christian family, but it would have been wonderful.
She is still the person I have loved most in my life.
Robin, Amsterdam,
Congrats to everyone who's commented positively - as long as there's no one else to get hurt by, WHO CARES? :D
Eric, Plymouth, USA
When I was younger my brother initialised sex with me and I just, well, "lay back thinking of england' to put it nicely.
I've always felt guilty I didnt stop it. For years I felt isolated Now I know it's not just me, right or wrong I can get on with my life without feeling disgusted. Thankyou. :)
Sarah, Kingston,
You can't control which human being has the perfec t soul match for you. Even though it may be a sibling or a family member, you have to understand that it's not the idea of them being a relative which attracts them, it's just their personalities and souls that click.
Jess, Ontario,
My sister and I had sex for several years in our early teens. It was the best sex of my life! I STILL fantasize about it, and it's been almost 40 years! It was always consensual, and we never hurt one another. We've both led normal lives. What's the harm?
Steve, Smithfield,
As a solicitor, I hear all sort of stories and I always try to give my clients the benefit of the doubt. Being atheist is one thing but not having any moral is another. There has to be a line which must not be crossed and surely. To me, this i one. Aren't humans supposed to be advanced apes?
M, Poplar, London
I always thought society's taboo around incest was because of the risk of inbreeding.
If pregnancy precautions were taken, and this was the warm, loving, emotional relationship which the reading of it suggests, then in all conscience I cannot see the wrong.
Max, London,
I just can't understand this kind of logic. I believe it is not nature and out of human being.
sonia, Beijing, China
I did try to draw logical conclusions to the story , but i can't understan why when there is a choice, I know in Pakistan, India, Iran and Arabs marry within family, cousent between each other and i Accept it but brother and sister having sexual relationship for me is byond logic.
Lec Neli, London, UK
Anyone remember Virginia Stephens, later Virginia Woolf?
John Dutton, Canberra, Australia
Listen the truth is that this has happened to millions of people, history is rife with stories of this it is simply one of the many ignored truths of the world in which we live. The greater thing is that both of you were able to move on to a healthy lifestyle after, and kudos for contraception.
Nick, Burlington, USA
Four hundred and fourteen comments! Why so many?
San Ying, Montreal, Canada
This is absolute lunacy and irresponsible. You both need HEL! Get it.
MBO, London, UK
I don't think there's anything wrong with it. If it's out of love, these things happen. I guess it's a part of human behavior.
Jess, new york,
Over the years our culture has imposed a number of taboos on human behavior, including homosexuality, transsexuality, inter-racial couples, etc. The most remarkable aspect of them has been that they illustrate so clearly how repressive and intolerant our society can be about sexual behavior.
TF, USA,
On my opinion this is intolerant and completely not healthy, bad character, ect. This shows that the world we live in has things we never actually thought about doing due to its disgustingness. Hats of to you though, madam, for sharing your own expierence and showing that this world has its stories.
Lenny Starger, Hong Kong, China
I've never had sex with anyone in my family, but I can relate to desiring sex in ways that fall outside of society's "norm." Sexuality falls outside the lines of marriage, heterosexuality, and monogamy, but often people are afraid of exploring alternative sexual relationships. Thx for sharing
Kathryn, Berlin, Germany
I fancy my 2nd cousin twice removed but your brother is just soooooo wrong!!!!! Good reading though
Mike, Inverness, scotland
This is disgusting. I have never read such a horrible revolting account. This is where the world is going and people are not even seeing it for the perverseness of what it really is.
Daniel, Washington DC,
in a million years i could not havesex with my brother ,we get on fine i think ,i,tsbizare ,but the story was good reading
rosita, stannes , lancs
Hmmm. Academia. Incest. Justification.
No kidding. No wonder.
Evets, Bristol, UK
Incest between siblings is probably rarely as consequence-free as described, nor am I rushing out to participate. That said, it certainly doesn't seem to cause much harm here, nor does it affect me (or anyone else). So who cares?
Hey, I think I found that missing middle ground!
Lo, San Jose,
A man's body is programmed for sex. Does that give every male the God given right to jump on every female in sight? Nature programmes us all to respond to sexual arousal. But there have to be boundaries. Rules are meant to protect people from abusive scenarios which can happen in any home.
Gary Hudson , Leeds, UK
If this story is genuine and I assume that it is, then no one else has the right to be judgemental. If what these two people do together feels alright for them, then who are we to say otherwise. There are far too many people in the world laying down rules which they expect others to adhere to.
John, Exeter, UK
Hormones mean teenagers and even young children will not understand their bodies arousal and can associate this with pleasure. Because their bodies react in a way they're not emotionally mature enough to deal with. Civilised people do not act on every sexual impulse. Self restraint is necessary.
Richard Keighley , Worthing, United Kingdom
Incest is given such a taboo nature due to the number of reports of a father sexually abusing his daughter. People often accept incest as a taboo without question. Those who argue inbreeding cause birth defects never researched upon the subject matter thoroughly enough.
And comments ARE so short...
Steve, Ontario, USA
Sex between siblings is far more widespread than you might think. I have read several studies on the subject, and it would appear that it occurs in over 20% of families.
Vierotchka, Geneva, Switzerland
I have had similar experiences and it proves there are always exceptions to every rule in life.
Michael, Los Angeles, USA
While I may not want to excoriate the author of this article for her confessions, I will say that I am not cool with this, not at all.
Allan, Brooklyn, USA
The many comments and criticisms confirm the wisdom of keeping private matters private.
Many hypocrites are blind to their own failings and weaknesses.
This relationship, like abortions, is the business of the adult couple involved and their doctor's, only, no one else.
Ken.H, Harrow, UK
The author showed very clearly that she understands the social and emotional ramifications of her incestuous relationship. There's no need for anybody to condemn her of feel sorry for her.
Incestuos procreation is a biological taboo. However, incest itself is purely a social taboo. No harm done.
Tom, Seattle, USA
Incest between siblings is wrong and disgusting. This is not about their ages at the time, nor is it about religion. This article is not progressive - it is regressive!
Christians, esp Puritans, have taken things way too far, but there is a reason why their teachings spread after Rome/Greece.
Kris, Seattle, USA
This story is sick and I really find it difficult to believe. I think this person is an exhibitionist and likes the media attention.
Gilmartin, Bristol, England
What's with all teh coverage of this in the media lately - what next - fathers sleeping with under age daughters or sodomy with their sons - can't help getting the feeling that this is being "normalised" and one of these days no one will bat an eyelid about it. Scarey.
Jane , London, UK
Wonderful story, im glad people don't feel embarrassed coming into the open like this, truthfully my sister and I have hit it off for the past 10 years, we are one of those couples that she described
Paul, Truro,
I don't have any brothers or sisters. But I am close to my cousin and the idea of having any kind of sexual relationship with him is completely wrong to me. I won't condem them, but where would we draw the line if society extended sexual relationships to siblings? The world is sex-mad as it is
Rachael, Driffield, Yorkshire, England
A new word for this kind of uninteresting tripe - a "stringer" : the public exhibition of personal problems for the voyeuristic delectation of people who are not in possession either of a life or the usual sensitivities of human beings. Public hangings come to mind as an example.
Kevin Straw, Leicester,
Stuff like this usually sounds like it went out of control, more along the lines of attraction and emotion. At the age of 14, puberty kicks in and people start to get ideas (igniting curiosity) which makes people more prone to getting confused and mixed up. It's best to just move on to other people
Timo Arnaldo, Milpitas,
Of course the children of Adam and Eve had to sleep together to produce children. This will not happen if evolution is true. Yet another clear sign that it is NOT.
virginia, Brisbane, Australia
It always seems to us that if it feels good then it is good.
but it is human nature to justify everything when we feel want something.
i am not their judge.
Jesus said he who is without sin let him cast the first stone. he ultimately is the judge.
Andrew, Ny
andrew , farmingdale, usa
There's nothing technically wrong with incest (same-blood-sex). After all, we are all same blood at some degree. It might be worst for gens, but who truly knows? Society is the main focus of the issue, but the true problem is you being emotionally dependent on someone else for your hapiness.
Caue CMR, Sao Paulo, Brazil
Let's get things clear. a single sexual relationship between siblings does not cause genetic deformities to occur - repeated reproductive ones do. Relationships between siblings have been known throughout history -see ancient Egypt.
John, Knutsford, UK
Love is love. They're not hurting anyone - get over it.
Anastasia, High Wycombe, England
This is sickening.. I am a very open minded person I'm not religious but it makes me ill to think of siblings together it is wrong and i know she says we always use contaception but that isn't one hundred percent effective and its a very selfish person who would do that to their children.
Mary, Dublin, Ireland
i think its beautiful. Although i have brothers and i would never dream of doing such a thing with them, I feel that is a sad romantic story with all odd against it. I wish them all the best.
briance, bruges,
There has to be something seriously wrong with these siblings? All I can think after reading this is ew! Where is this world headed?? Sad. I am pretty opened minded...but C'mon!
Karen, San Diego,
When I was 10 years old I was pestered by men all the time. I am fed up of people living like they are literally enslaved to their sexual desires like predators. People are becoming animals - not human beings who can say no, or refuse to degrade theirselves. It's wrong and we need to draw a line.
Susan M., Liverpool , England
When the world found out about the horrific case of abuse in Austria recently, where a man imprisoned his daughter and raped her for 22 years, we also heard that their eldest daughter born, Kristin was seriously ill. Kristin's health was so appalling because she had been born from incest. Appalling.
Tim Drew , Whitby,
Gross! Why does sex have to pervade everything in today's world?
Its annoying. There are other things in life than sex. Geez.
Sarah, Seattle, USA
I think she makes sense, but only in terms of two consenting adults, which is partly what she is talking about. Emotionally abusive.......I don't think so as a great deal of relationships can affect a person's relationship with other. I know a guy and girl who were high school sweethearts and.....
Clint Wirth, scranton, USA
There are absolutely no studies which indicate that there are any more genetic problems with offspring of blood kin, than off spring of non blood kin.
Don't use junk science to prop up a moral and judgmental stance.
she doesn't seem mentally ill to me, and it's rather vicious to say she is.
Deldell, Spokane, USA
Although the writer says that the relationship with her brother did no harm, her words reveal that it has affected her relationship with her sister-in-law and also with her feelings towards the man she says she might marry. The emotional damage is obvious.
Michael, Sydney, Australia
What is wrong , is wrong. This shows a total lack of morals and scruples. It is a shame people take there perversions and try to justify and convince not only others but themselves what they are doing is acceptable. Now after several generations of carefull inbreeding , Just ask the Amish,
Lee , Clarion, USA
This young woman and her brother are seriously mentally ill. I hope they get the treatment they desperately need.
Kim Righetti, Upland, Calif. USA
I found out my husband had had a sexual relationship with his sister.
I couln't trust him, or tolerate what he had done.
A very long & bitter divorce ensured, & my children still suffer (though I've never told them what their father did). Thank God I only had boys...
Name withheld, surrey,
Let's at least dispel one myth first. The Bible never says Adam and Eve were the only two people on earth procreating. Just the first representatives of the human race. It also does not say that Cain and Abel were their only children. These are the only two mentioned, that's all.
Charles, Jackson, Tn., USA
personaly he sounds to great to give up
im not giving up my brother, not for anyone, they can think what they want, say what they want, i beleive love concures all, but maybe im still a child at heart, a dreamer, but even so i dont beleive anyone should give up dreaming or beleiving.
natas, salem,
The only experience ive had is sex with my high school teacher .I use to focus all my energy wanting to find out what it would be like until it really happened.She was attractively caring and assisting ,I still can never quite understand the phonemona,it was good though.
Neven, durban, South Africa
Don't really share the experience.
I believe I wouldn't consider it since it presents genetic problems if it results in pregnancy and because I couldn't feel attracted to a sibling in that way, but I believe none of us is in any position of judging it.
Jonathan, Buenos Aires, Argentina
I always wondered about adam and eve, their children and the whole story... if there were only two people to start, how did the rest of us get here?
Also - Didn't royalty used to breed with other family members to keep the bloodline?
God loves ALL of us... regardless of what you've been told!
Anna, Washington DC,
This is beautiful. I have a similar relationship with a close friend of mine, and it is also nothing more than a romantic sisterhood. Again, this was beautiful to see that someone else has a similar experience. :]
Helen, Redwood Springs, USA
One wonders how unusual this situation is. Why is it really wrong? They could live together anyway. Apparently,at times, in ancient Egypt , marriage between brothers and sisters was encouraged, plus it was regarded that this could strengthen the family hierarchy. Marrying cousins used to be taboo
B.Warren, Lymington , UK
for all you bible quoting christian fundamentalists here's one for you, "Judgment is Mine, sayith the Lord."
Korey, California, usa
I believe that English/American society has long felt the sting of Puritan influence. What the author had with her sibling was a beautiful relationship Very much practiced by nobility dating back to the early empires of western civilization. They both consented to have sexual intercourse.
Korey, Kilburn, uk
interesting point of view...i always thought about incest as abuse. however i still think that it's wrong and shouldn't be commended.
mae, singapore,
The problem here is the education system that separates kids as they're growing up. Research shows that kids who grow up and spend lots of time together, have an aversion to incestual behavior. The individual isolation of schools combines w/erosion of the moral code causes sordid cases like this.
Anna, philadelphia,
I am really freaked out at the relatively facile responses to the question of incest, particularily immediate family incest. There is a reason that its by and large unacceptable in most societies based consciously or unconsciously on genetic factors, social cohesion or protection of the vulnerable.
Terri, Cambridge,
Poppy, claiming that this will affect their children in some way is ridiculous. By that token, everyone raised by same-sex partners will turn out gay!
If they're happy with what they did, and no harm's done, who are we to judge?
Rooney
Rooney, Harlow, UK
Daisy, New York said "The kids are natural prey" because the father and aunt previously had sexual relations. What a load of rubbish. The siblings have broken off their sexual relationship and it's perfectly possibly for both to have decent marriages.
Jen, Marlborough,
Saying that it is up to them and it is their lives is all well and good but these two poeple are not indepedent of the world. Their actions will affect their children at the very least on a subconcious level. This irregular relationship will give rise to itself in some form in their children.unfair.
Poppy, Cheltenham,
At the age 15 I had such experiment (my sister is 5 years younger).
In contrast to the author, sex lead me and her being away, distant and farther from each other.
we couldn't have the feeling of union and closeness we once had.
After 18 year still it has shadowed our relationship.
fred, hamilton,
I reckon that the simple statistic that this article has generated HUNDREDS rather than the usual dozens of comments says that the author touched a national nerve. The watchword is consent and that it what separates sex with a sibling from abuse. Love, however expressed, is still love.
Trisha Shannon, Brighton, England
Me and my sister also had a similar relationship, this was initiated by her on various stages of our lives first as small children I must have been about 5 she and I would kiss, from 10-14 shed do things saying "I heard this turned guys on..does it?" She was 4 yrs older but I \enjoyed it very much
Gino, Dallas, TX
I'd just like to add to my above comment that this goes on every were.
when i was at secondary school a classmate told me he and his sister had a relationship because he knew through his sister that i was with my sister but no one ever came up to me or my sister and told us it was wrong.
jon tate, canterbury ,
My thoughts wander to the parental teachings of morals and values. Are we merely seeing a repition of child abuse going on generation to generation? Does the fact it is misinterpreted as
a natural loving act take away the fact that they are siblings? Experimentation due to hormones doesn't belong
Growing Pains, Denver, USA
When I was younger, my brother and I kissed. I was 6 and he was 9. And he hadn't exactly forced me to do it but as we got older he had started touching me. All of it had felt different and because of it I have issues with people touching me or even being near me.
Chelsea, Minnesota, USA
Fools, you don't understand that this is a STORY, not experience.
Ashik, Dhaka , Bangladesh
This is normal, me and my sister flirted with each other in our teens but never had the privacy to consimate our relationship.
I still think that this would of been a good thing for both of us its just sociatys problem and untill sociaty reconises it it will still go on though not understood.
jon tate, canterbury , kent
Re: "They had a relationship, it's over, they're friends. Can anyone actually name a single bad outcome of the situation? "
I can. When her brother and his wife have children, their father will have had incestuous relations w/their aunt, as will have the aunt w/the father. The kids are natural prey
Daisy, New York, USA
It happened to me once, were both adults at the time. With only 18 months between us, sharing the same emotions and same experiences within the family. This makes two people very close. I believe it is more to do with comfort and familiarity that we need at the time. Dont feel guilty. Jill UK
Jill, Daventry, United Kingdom
I think what they had was beautiful. They relationship was tender and loving. He loved her so and even asked her if she did not want him to marry all she had to do was say so. It was right for them to stop their sexual relationship. If it had not she would have become his wife and become pregnant.
mike, new york, usa
A lot of the comments here heave been as to whether the girl was or was not "consenting" as she was 14. The age of consent (16 in the UK) is a legality, with no respect for individuals actual development. What is the real difference between a 15 year old a 16 year old ?
Natalie, Colchester, United Kingdom
True or false. Does it matter? This story is about forbiden love. Have you ever loved someone so much you hurt for them on a daily basis? I have, and if i found out that he was my brother later it would not have changed a thing. Soul mates. Love has no bounderies, love does not judge.
amanda clark, canton, US
Those who say it is wrong - who are you to judge? Are you sure that you are 'whiter than white'?
And for those who say it is deceitful and a lie - have you told your partner about every previous sexual encounter you may have had? I certainly haven't. Everyone has things they keep to themselves...
Jenny, Redhill, UK
Here in the States this is known as "The'Deliverence' Syndrome ".
daryl, Dallas, U.S.A.
They had a relationship, it's over, they're friends. Can anyone actually name a single bad outcome of the situation?
Emily, Bristol,
re: Jane the anthropologist from London. There is not a universal taboo against incest across all of history. Just look at sister-brother marriage in Roman Egypt for many instances of lawful incest without a hint of a taboo being broken.
Hannah, London,
Jen, Grenoble, France
I dont really have much of an opinion on this to be honest - but to say incest causes disease is somewhat far fetched- i can only assume you are reffering to genetic problems in offspring of incestuous couples???
Rebecca, London,
I don't agree with what this woman and her brother did, but for those hurling their religious mud at her, "judge not, lest..." I'm sure you know the rest.
Mike, Bristol, UK,
Here in Australia we only recently read in our newspapers of a father who lives with his daughter as husband and wife. There was similar coverage and comments as have been made in this blog, then it was all over...a 'nine day wonder'. But we had photos of the couple so it was not fake!
John, Woollahra, Australia
Why are commenters referring to the Bible? The author does not say she's Christian, so why is the Bible relevant to her choices? Using your religious views to judge others, and a moral superiority complex, is what creates the REAL problems in our world - probably more so than these two having sex!
Clare, New York City, USA
I confess that for me incest is unthinkable. And I didn't know that it was also spread. It is not the moral point of view, wich bother me but the biological character of the thing. I've always believed that incest can cause diseases...
Jen, Grenoble, France
So many opinions! If this is wrong, then according to WHAT criteria? If it is ok, then again according to WHAT criteria?
Who set the rules? I think in ALL societies (except some parts of the USA) incest is illegal. BUT, in most parts of the world, including UK, incest is defined as bro/sis etc.
marshal, cambs, uk
I my case i experiment in early age with cousins, we do a lot of "nasty" things.And l also experimented with girl,who was for me like sister, we started slowly discovering our bodies and end up with sex. It was quite interesting, i think of it in good. We heven´t planed sx, but if it was opportuniti
roman, brno,
i think it is nasty but i cant judge you for what you did it you and i cant put myself in your shoes because i cant see myself doing anything like dat, but i wont look at you any different either because it'z not my place and people just have a different way of love, life, and responsabilities.
keyana, brooklyn new york, united states
Well, my brother and I "experimented" when I was 13 and he was 14, at his suggestion; it went on for three years. Now I despise him; it turned out he tried the same "loving thing" with his older sister, who rarely speaks to him. Our parents just don't understand why we aren't closer to him...
Rita Richardson, Los Angeles, USA
if no harm is done, where's the problem?
on the other hand, post-freud its hard not to anticipate incestuous relationships leading to later psychological issues... but what did freud know? its not something i would personally wish for myself or my sister, but to each their own.
who really cares?
bob, mcr, uk
What I find incredible is that they had sex only once ever six months. This sounds unbelievable, yet it suggest more than a physical nature to the relationship. Either he is a genius predator
<br/>or it was something special written little about.
Jack, Tulsa, USA
"Flowers in the Attic" anyone?
h, Cincinnati, United States
What is done out of love always takes place beyond good and evil - Friedrich Nietzsche
But on the whole the article is relatively boring.
AKULA, london, UK
Is this a true story? It reads like Arundhati Roy's "The God of Small Things", set in Kerala, India. In the novel, the siblings are twins. I enjoyed the novel immensely even though the incest made me sick, having a twin brother, myself. As close as we were, we just weren't close enough to go there.
kaz, hong kong,
Glad to hear of the care over contraception given the risk of harmful double recessive gene expression. This probably underlies our instinctive distaste. Such feelings generally have a sound biological basis. I would extend the legal ban to 1st cousins.
Paul, Loughborough, UK
What is good or not isn't determined by what feels "right". If you call a "healthy" relationship one that never explicitly/openly talked about their sexual relations, then I'm not sure that it is. One should be wary of someone's judgment if she defines her relationships with others mostly by sex.
York, New York,
...It is only through airing experiences such as this that any progress in society can be made. 100 years ago it would have been an article on homosexuality..."
Fred, Bristol.
Surely this would be a step backwards Fred?
Dave, swansea, Wales
Some of the comments on this article are laughable. The opinions seem to veer between "look how morally progressive I can be" fawning over how 'touching' it is that this woman has seen fit to make public her story and 'your soul will burn' from Hicksville, Kentucky, USA. Middle ground please?
Doddsby, Hampshire, United Kingdom
Where does one draw the line? Can a father and daughter have a sexual relationship? Or a mother and son? What about a Grandparent and Grandchild? If justified in the same way, does that mean it's okay? I think not.
We need taboos in our society. Otherwise we get chaos.
Vincent Ward, London, England
I'm unable 2 fully open my heart 2 anyone as nobody can fill my 1st cousin's shoes. I'm in love with her and always will be. We are both married (kids)so we no longer sleep with each other. Our family knows and is disgusted. We are so lost in love but want no more pain to family I want h in my lif
rdeonne_e, sf, usa
My sister is 2 years younger than I. When teens, she would often lie beside me on the sofa and and stroke my foot with hers. It never went beyond that, but I can understand that when young it is difficult to feel as close to someone else who you haven't grown up with. These guys didn't see the line.
Pete, NI,
I dislike the idea of two siblings having sexual encounters at the age of 14 and 15. But two non-siblings I would see as acceptable - kids experiment after all. I was 11 when I first experimented, it was with another boy and I am now gay. Do I see incest as unnatural? It's not my cup of tea, but no.
Angel, Coventry, England
Try reading "The Holy Sinner" by Thomas Mann.
Neil, Galloway, Scotland
Amazing that people think contraception is 100%. If she had gotten pregnant the story wouldn't have been so peachy. Of course she could have aborted/killed their "love" child. No harm there right? 10 - 1, if the story is real, they do end up with each other when their relationships with others fail.
Allan, Loveland, USA
i'm so glad i'm an only child. i mean no disrepect to anyone, i believe experimenting is natural for children but i don't know about after say... 12. this made me a little sick.
jeslee, amherst,
To those who keep saying "but they're consenting adults, what's the problem?", they weren't "consenting adults" when they started this relationship. They were 14 and 15, ages when hormones rule over intellect. Would you be okay with YOUR kids having sex with *anyone* at that age?
Jina, Colorado Springs,
I experimented with my brother's privates when I was a little girl. I even had a brief sexual encounter with my cousin when I was 7 years old. My cousin was 10 years old at the time. I can still remember the pain and blood. I am now in my 20's and totally normal. I used to worry about having kids.
Heather, dallas, texas
This used to be the norm, look at the ancient Greeks and Romans - nothing new.....
Swiss Reader, Schindellegi, Switzerland
my bro did the same to me gowing up til i was 14 yrs old. I was too young to remember how it started and exactly when. I know it was about 4 yrs old. I know how it feels. We are still close like it never happend. Now 25 yrs later, its like it was a dream and never happend.
jenny, willmar,
having offspring with siblings is wrong because your children would have a high chance of genetic diseases, but as long as you use protection and it's a mutual decision, who exactly is hurting from it? two people enjoying themselves, just like in any sexual relationship.
John, London,
The truth from my own experience of a relationship with a woman who had experienced many predatory sexual encounters with older members of her family is this. It destroyed her mentally and physically, they did not take no for an answer. how loving would that be,u cant say no and cant get away.
Lee, reading, england
These kind of moral oversights are becoming more accepted in the U.S. as a norm. If you have sex in our public
parks , streets and bathrooms and openly advocate for child sex our government will act quick to protect your rights and do everything they can to have you licensed as a psychiatrist.
Richard, Lexington - Ky, USA
I wonder what the origins of this taboo is? Is it that our forefathers realised the issue of genetic defects associated with incest?
There are communities where the best arranged marriages are considered to be those between the niece and the maternal uncle.
Shreela, New Delhi,
I wonder...how many of the people here that have commented on this article being "brilliant" or "progressive" have actually abused a sibling and are using this as a way to excuse their wrongs? Just a thought. Also, religion has everything to do with it. Our bodies were a gift from God. Use wisely.
S, LV, NV,
I am having a hard time wrapping my mind around this . I have a brother who is smart, handsome and funny, but I''m repulsed at the thought of making love to him. . I'm not bound or brainwashed by any religion and I believe in freedom of choice. It will be a long way off , if ever, when society
marla calandro, nEW yORK cITY,
Though I myself cannot wrap my head around something I like this, I wish people would stop condemning this woman. You have never been in her shoes, most of us don't know what this is like. Until you can fully understand, don't rush to condemn. You cannot help how you feel.
Harlie, Madison, USA
Sorry, but that is just WRONG! Incest is incest and That is definitely incest. I don't know what else to say.
sam, Belper,
Well, this is quite a situation. While I do not condone or practice incest in any way, I can not agree that the brother was a sexual predator taking advantage of his younger sister. They are only one year apart. They made the wrong choice in selecting each other as sexual partners.
Thomas, TX, USA
This article does instantly make me feel a little repulsed, but repulsion alone is no reason to condemn anyone. There may be arguments on the basis of medical grounds, family unity, and loss of important innocent relationships, but thinking it's icky isn't enough to curb the freedom of adults.
Kathy, London,
OK--let's get real here. First, I think that this is a made-up article. Secondly, if the sister in question is so "healthy" and "liberating" in her decision, then why did it take her this long to find someone to replace her brother? Why is she hiding behind anonymity? OH also, YUK!!!
Dee, atlanta, USA
Those who say that the brother is a predator, only do so because that is the default reaction ingrained into people. People are so afraid of being labeled a freak that they will even ignore the truth to conform. The brother was only ONE YEAR older and the relationship was consensual!
Justin, TX, USA
If my children were involved I would worry for their well being, same as I would have done fifty years ago had my children been homosexual.
In certain communities the ideal arranged marriage is between the meternal uncle and niece.
Like in most issues morality and opinions are subjective.
Shreela, Delhi,
I'm sorry you commenters are ridiculous...a progressive article?...enlightening?...im sorry there's nothing enlightening hearing about an older brother abusing his younger sister, there's nothing heart warming about statutory rape and child abuse. No wonder names were changed, he'd be in court
John, london, england
It's lucky for the sister (and the brother) that she liked it - but he didn't know that when he got in the bed and started touching her. He learnt a very bad lesson - and I only hope he doesn't try it on with someone who hates it or a younger person who can't escape it.
Karen, Paisley, Scotland
Those who think this is ok should read it again. Her brother seduced her, he was older & more socially aware. He's a predator and she was fooled by emerging feeling & love for him. I didn't read good memories, I read jealousy & regret. Would she feel the same if it was her son & daughter?
Lee, Dallas, USA
That story seem so wrong. But yet it seems so right, to them. I mean they been having sex for years. It was just so normal to them.
But aren't we all incest though, Because in the beginning there was Adam and Eve. So don't u wonder how we came to be? Wouldn't we all be brothers and sisters anyways??
Tina, New Orleans, USA
Love is love... if you want love your sibling, go for it. Good and wrong is subjective. If this is real, it took great courage for her, and I applaud her for being open about and finding beauty in such a torrent, taboo affair.
Forget religion; love shouldn't have restrictions.
Dan, Colubmus, Ohio, United States
I love that story
jasmincormier, Montreal,
Forbidden love; it reminds me of Romeo and Juliet.
I havent heard of an incest story like this before. Its very sad. I'm very sorry its been so hard for you, and him too. It sounds far more emotional than physical. Its sad.
There should be more articles like this to raise awareness of sibling love.
Abby, Bognor Regis, England
Brilliant article, it truly opened my eyes and really turned me on
to a whole new way of thinking about family life! Thanks
Jay, Battersby,
An interesting article, and although I do not agree with what had happened, I wouldn't deny anybody else the right to what ever they pleased with their bodies....as is their right. Am I not correct? Why should they choose a religion? Please do not force others to your faith..probably wrong anyway
Craig, Plymouth, England
I think that this article is liberating being able at last to bring this subject into the open Incest is more common than people realise and although I dont encourage it I can see how easy it is for two close siblings to cross that line. After all they love and trust each other.
Kim, high Wycombe, England
I was very sickened by the article. But more so I was sickened by the comments. I think this world needs severe punishment by God if Christ second coming is not due for long yet then I am just feared for the immediate future of my children having to live in this sick world.
a Cristian, Chelmsford, UK
There is something *very* wrong with Daniel seducing his younger sister. I suspect that's not the last we hear of him fiddling with girls he shouldn't have. As for their "hours of discussion" that their relationship should end upon Daniel's marriage; what a pleasant pair
Laura Bennett, Cheltenham,
I agree. I think the article is total fantasy
Max Patel, croydon, surrey
Having worked with social services, I know of young people who have experimented in this manner and it never turns out to be so lovely a tale. Quite frankly, I think this story is fiction. Its an abhorrent sexual fantasy written to fuel and expose the author's own lusts.
William, New Orleans, USA
Disgusting.
Isabel, Dorset, UK
It all sounds so harmless, and we're so eager to condone what 'feels good'. But is it really so different from someone saying that sex with their father is fine because they didn't feel guilty and felt turned on. Even if they were 14 and he 40 at the time? Even if they were 16 and 'consented'...?
Laura, Winchester, UK
I have always been fond of my brother, I do find the idea of sex with him sickening. Evolution has wired humans with an innate aversion to incest - most people do find the idea of it disgusting. When it happens, some kind of dysfunction in the family has probably overridden the natural repugnace.
Lisa, Vernon, USA
Morals cannot be debated. Mores and norms define people and societies in a way that animals are not defined. Whether incest 'feels right' or not it is abnormal, and the right to do increasingly abnormal things is fought for today because more people now despise law, order and absolutes.
charles kachikoti, Ndola, zambia
I disagree with this merely as a matter of personal preference. Intellectually, I see nothing inherently wrong with the relationship described in this article.
J., Morgantown, USA
Their new relationships with other people don't appear "spoilt", at least not from what was written in the article; so I think it's a bit presumptious to say such. So Daniel's wife doesn't like his sister? well, it isn't exactly uncommon for in-laws to dislike each other!
Louise Chelton, London, UK
As a muslin I find all of this pretty revolting. No doubt Christians and Jews of faith will also be disgusted. This is what happens when society loses its anchors, it sinks in moral turoitude. are thre no boundries in today's hedonistic society. Why is the "everything goes attitude" permissable.
Arif Khan, London, United Kingdom
Actually I don't believe it. It doesn't ring true. I am sure people do sleep with their brothers but this reads like a lite clean version of commercial porn. Do I detect someone with a book to sell who is hoping for six figure advance?
AJ, London,
The people commenting are uptight and don't understand adolescence or incest...........Should you marry your first cousin? If reproduction is the quest incest with family members is not good at all...beyond that..two teens can work out a lot between themselves....teens can work out 'their problems'
Gabriel, Bangkok, Thailand
Just reading some comments..."it is eveyone's right to do what they wish"... " consenting adults so no harm done" "those who oppose incest are 'busy bodies' " "This woman is a victim too" "how refreshing to see a progressive attitude towards incest"
Are you guys for real? Seriously?
Dave, Jakarta,
I am surprised people dont talk much about UNINTENTIONAL incest between adults who dont know they are related. (Think of adopted children, children born from sperm donors, etc).
When such siblings or half-siblings meet they could easily feel a affinity that leads to marriage and children.
Pravina, New Delhi, India
I also had something similar and consensual in my early teens with my brother, but not because of affection. It started more as playing a game and went from there. I stopped it when I understood it getting sexual. I do regret it today and we never speak about it. But I'm reassured to read of others.
Beth, Raleigh, USA
Courageous to speak out !!! this one of the untold stories in our society, where religious and cultural taboos don't allow to express people about their real experiences. Others have no courage to speak. At present many people have not endorsed it, but it would be a normal story after 100 years....
Khan, Islamabad, Pakistan
Sorry incest gurus but the subject of this article makes clear she was not a consenting adult (age 14). In fact, if incest is condoned the vast majority of cases inevitably WILL NOT be between two consenting adults. By the way, only dimwits believe "there was no chance of pregnancy" in this case.
Cathy Hansen, ruckersville, virginia. USA
This is a disgusting and sickening article. Incest is never okay - period. Both you and your brother are going to suffer long-lasting, severe psychological problems that will bear their weight later on in life. I feel sorry for you.
Sarah Miller, London, UK
Funny how people write how they're 'sick', 'disgusted' and find it 'revolting'! Full of aversion, yet this is still about love. Some perspective please.
Also I've never shaken the belief that those who fight the hardest against something, do so because they cannot accept their own interest in it..
dan, London, UK
When you reach puberty you are adult. No consensual relationship -of any kind- between adults is objectively immoral. Only man-made ethics create subjective moral -and legal- rules. Different societies create different rules for different reasons. Civilised societies also protect the vulnerable.
Gerard Mulholland, paris, France
As I began to read this article, I admit I was somewhat disgusted of incest itself, but as I read went on I understood the relationship between you're brother and yourself. This has definitely shined a new light on this subject.
Monica, Port Washington , US
Sounds like a story from a porn mag. Very simular. I don't beleive in the real people behind this erotic fantasy.
Olga , Brisbane, Australia
Isn't Alison a victim here? Her husband has a secret that he won't share with her, but which will always be between them. His wife is uncomfortable around her sister-in-law. Can you blame her? Secrets can be an impediments to emotional intimacy. She'll always be second best to her sister-in-law
Annie, Washington, DC, USA
This woman, who spoke so openly with Joan
McFadden regarding her relationship, which
she defined as incest, is, to me, courageous to <