When I received an invitation to contribute to this blog, with a suggestion to reflect on heterosexual erotic culture in Mozambique, the first topic that came to mind β based on my fieldwork in urban Maputo, Mozambique β focused on the experience of cheating. This approach allows one to expand understandings of morality by engaging with the diversity of social realities.
Cheating has its own dynamics. In my piece, I aim to highlight and discuss the context and unfolding of such dynamics amongst young adults in Maputo; thus, expanding understanding of morality.
However, soon after my choice, I was struck by a second thought. I doubted if such a topic was appropriate. The main reasons for my doubt had to do with the fear of fuelling primitivistic erotic fantasies and metropolitan voyeurism Meiu I focus on the dynamics of intimacy and social interaction amongst young adults in urban Maputo to critically reflect on how to write about Africa in contemporary times.
Therefore, through using the case study of Maputo city, I aim to explore how people respond to dilemmas of intimacy. I depart from a general question about a phenomenon that people recognise all over the globe: How do people reconcile moral principles and ethics of social institutions such as courtship, dating, marriage or any other similar institution with the desire, feeling or wanting to pursue sexual liaisons while maintaining stability in their lives?
My response explores the life dynamics of young adults in Maputo. They are dwellers of the bustling city of Maputo.
