Don’t be stumped: Most writers do not even attempt to write erotica as they are lost as to how they would write it? What words they would use? Whether a sex scene is good or bad? How would a reader react? Previously written books may be for a previous generation. You can write something new and unique.
Sex scenes aren’t about sex only: A good sex scene is about the exchange of emotions, not bodily fluids. There can be emotions from rage or desolation to exultation, tenderness, or surprise.
Increase your vocabulary according to your book era: If you are attempting to write contemporary sex scenes try to find current slang or words. If you are trying to write in the Georgian or Victorian era then know more about the words current at the time. You can very easily do this by googling words and finding which centuries they were used.
Show the exchange of emotions: The best way to show exchange of emotions is by dialogue, expression or action. Dialogue is by far the most flexible and powerful tool a writer has. What people say reveals the essence of their characters. A good sex scene is usually a dialogue scene with physical details.
Use all senses: Many writers and authors use only sight and sound. You can make a vivid scene by including smell, taste, touch.
Do not use ambiguous words: Do not leave too much to imagination. Try to fill in the blanks in the mind of your reader.
Use appropriate trigger warnings : If your story includes violence, sexual harassment, sex trafficking, coercion, rape, make up sex, sexual assault, childhood sexual abuse, sexual fantasy, BDSM, fetish, etc put appropriate trigger warnings.
These stories need to be written and be heard rather being labelled as pornographic or too rude.
Get Feedback: If you are writing a sex scene and are unsure if it would be something your readers would like. Join a writers’ community or group who would be happy to tell you what works and what doesn’t work.
As a writer or author write your story and have a distinct voice. Tell your story!
Devika Shallivan Services: https://www.facebook.com/rgrprt/services
Resources
Wikipedia: Erotica Genre
Game of Thrones – George R. R. Martin (1996) Books
Bridgerton – Julia Quinn (2000) Books
Nymphomaniac Volume I (2013) Film
Nymphomaniac Volume II (2013) Film
Fifty Shades of Grey (2015) – E L James
Sex Education (2019) TV Series
As with all articles in Frost, the opinions expressed are the contributor’s own.