The power of the written word...

[000zing]

... can it be hypnotic... spark "auto-suggestion"..?

An artistic, hippyish commune of mixed male/female adults buys a place atop a hill in a new neighbourhood. They become known for keeping themselves to themselves and not mixing with the locals. One day however the commune sends out emissaries to knock on selected local doors and give out books which they have produced.

There's something about the events described in the stories... or maybe some way with the wording... which draws certain individuals from those selected dwellings inexorably to visit the commune and do as bidden by the inhabitants... again and again.

 

[SteelPoint]

Yes, yes and yes again. I go for this sort of thing. Something of the mystical/magical mixed with the "unable to help myself" idea. Could work for either sex.

Possibly the commune becomes gradually a focus for the neighbourhood... with the locals being preyed on for sexual gratification of the commune members.

Sadly, I'm not sure that the written word can really have the power you mention... but all is allowed in fiction (except of course when certain noses are put out of shape!)

 

[LiverpoolMaster]

Probably too big an ask that a formula of words could push things along so far, although I suppose there's always the possibility of language implanting the seed of an idea. Also, it's well-known that people have been inspired to commit crimes etc. through being over-influenced by film characters etc.

Like it generally.

 

[TarnishedPenny]

Beaucoup potential! Great concept!

 

[UsuallyPresent]

See "True Name" and related concepts for another take on this. Perhaps someone finds the 'True Name' for fucking? Arousal? Desire? What if those three are found by different parties and they start competing - who'd win?

 

[sirhugs]

See "True Name" and related concepts for another take on this. Perhaps someone finds the 'True Name' for fucking? Arousal? Desire? What if those three are found by different parties and they start competing - who'd win?

"Lust" by a nose.