Do Not Bid...

Synonyms:
See also:	eBay, Warning, Age Statement
Click here for related articles on Fanlore.

Sellers on eBay who sell materials of a slash fannish nature often include a phrase which alerts potential buyers that the item in question features or suggests a same-sex relationship. While there are many variations of this phrase, the word "offense" always seems to be included.

The phrase has roots in earlier print zines. In the third issue of Datazine in 1980, there is a listing for Naked Times which says, "Naked Times is a K/S zine. Do not order if you are offended by same-sex relationships. Age statement required with each order." Another example is a 1987 ad in Star Trek Action Group: "All zines denoting the "K/S" or "/" slash symbol are of a homosexual nature. Please do not order these zines if you object to the premise."

Examples

• "Do not bid if you are offended by material of this nature!"
• "This is a slash fanzine, which features a male/male relationship. If this offends you, please do not bid."
• "This zine features same-sex relationships. Do not bid if offended by such material."
• "If male/male romance offends you, please do NOT consider bidding on this item."
• "This is a slash fanzine which features stories about a sexual and romantic relationship between 2 men. Please do not bid if this offends you."
• "SLASH-CONTAINS SCENES OF A GRAPHIC HOMOEROTIC NATURE. If this offends you in anyway please do not bid!!!!"