Jim Ward’s New Book

In my left ear lobe is the only permanent piercing I have on my body. I wear a stainless steel ring in that piercing and have for so many years I honestly can’t remember ever taking it out. That piercing was done by Jim Ward, the father of the modern piercing movement. I cherish that piercing.

Lucky for us, Mr. Ward has written Running the Gauntlet: An Intimate History of the Modern Body Piercing Movement, a book that proves to be the seminal work on the subject.

No, I have not yet read the book. But I plan to, soon. I have no doubt it’s great and will do extremely well. No man on earth is more qualified to write an account of the body piercing phenomenon than Mr. Ward. He is credited with being the societal tipping point that brought about the acceptance of the body piercing culture that we enjoy today.

Body piercings can represent symbols of sexual identity. They can be a proudly worn sign of personal acceptance. Or they can simply be beautiful to the eye. Regardless of why you might have an interest in piercing, whether you’re pierced yourself or not, please consider buying Mr. Ward’s book. He’s an icon. He’s a nice guy. His book is important. I’m really looking forward to reading it.