Drummer Pony is a transgender, queer, autistic leatherman, sadomasochist, ponyboy and all-around deviant with a flair for the extravagant and bizarre. He has been active in the Colorado leather community for almost five years and spends much of his time engaging with the Rocky Mountain Pony Herd. He is an avid writer, artist, and gardener with a background in environmental science and justice.

This class delves into the complexities of amatonormativity, dissecting its presence in both mainstream and alternative lifestyles. Through the lens of Drummer and Mxstress's relationship, we examine relationship escalators, presumed hierarchies, and how amatonormativity influences relationships even within queer and kink communities. Aromanticism takes center stage as we navigate its various forms, linking them to neurodivergence and the nuanced perception of relationships. We explore the authentic freedom of expression in kink without romance and intimacy beyond traditional romantic paradigms. Participants will ponder the question: Can a life without romance be fulfilling? The class culminates in discussions on the performance of dominance and submission versus romanticism, the dynamics of platonic relationships, and the passionate development of interests within the context of neurodivergent aromanticism.