In Italian they are baci; in Spanish they are besos; and in French, baisers. No matter the language, although perhaps with special consideration to those considered Romance Languages, the kiss is considered an art.
No one knows more about this seemingly ancient craft than William Cane, author of “The Art of Kissing” and “The Book of Kissing.” Cane treated SLCC students at the Jordan, Redwood, and South City campuses to a multimedia presentation late last week.
Cane’s presentation addressed a wide range of lip locking topics: from how to give a hickey and how to get rid of one, different types of kisses, and even the history and customs of kissing. While the presentation and slides were entertaining themselves, the audience was much more enthralled by some of the lips- and hands-on demonstrations by some of SLCC’s attendees.
Cane identifies one of the major differences between humans and other animals, is the variety, romance, and passion that we inject into the act of kissing. Cane says that 90 percent of people claim the French kiss as their favorite. Other varieties include the upside-down “Spiderman” kiss, the rhythmic music kiss where lovers lock lips on the beat, and the butterfly kiss, which consists of batting eyelashes across a partner’s skin. These and others were re-enacted in a most convincing fashion by SLCC students.
If all the puckering up wasn’t enough, Cane discussed fantasies, such as those men have when getting a haircut or women have when at the dentist.
Throughout the performance, the kissing connoisseur emphasized that practice, whether with a hand, another partner, or even a door knob, would ensure confidence. Smooching starts with desire, but above all, “it’s always important to understand our partners” if we want the best kiss possible. And, unfortunately, he added that there is no fail-safe way to get rid of that hickey.
Perhaps enticed by the unique and titillating subject matter, as well as the complimentary refreshments, Cane’s lecture saw a good turnout. Attendees were seen leaving the event with bemused smiles and red cheeks, with many enthusiastically discussing their new knowledge about the kiss. Some of them may even have found new partners to practice with.
Cane, a pen name used by the former Boston College professor Michael Christian when he released his first book in 1991, has appeared on television shows such as The View and the Today Show. Perhaps appropriately, he’s also served as a spokesman for related products like Crest and Listerine.
For those who missed this fascinating event, or for those who would like even more information, including blogs and how-to guides, visit kissing.com. Michael Cane’s books “The Art of Kissing,” “The Book of Kissing,” and “The Art of Hugging” can be found online at Amazon.com or at your local Barnes and Noble retailer.