Guest - Marie March - Lurid or Lusty

Lurid or Lusty
The Challenges of Writing Erotica
By Marie March

In recent years, the mind-set toward Erotica has become more progressive and well received. However, in spite of forward thinking attitudes, there still exists a puritanical state of mind towards "blue" language, sexuality and sexual slang both in print media and the spoken word. Yet, interestingly enough these rules do not readily apply to romance writers, and more specifically the erotica writer.

Though somewhat forbidden in just about every other form of literature, on the whole it is deemed acceptable, as well as expected, the inclusion of "filthy" words in the erotica narrative.

Often times, physical intimacy transforms into sensual, passionate, and in some cases extreme sexual experiences. In erotica, carnal desire translates into down and dirty verbiage intended to arouse the characters in the story, as well as the readers themselves. Since a large number of readership(s) choose these stories specifically for stimulation and fantasy, no one writing in this genre should feel ashamed purposely targeting a reader's guilty pleasure. Exploring human sexuality with honesty, an open mind and even a dash of humor, in a society often inhibited or reticent, can be a freeing practice.

Now, this does not mean your complete storyline has to read like a recent parolee's travelogue through the red-light district in Amsterdam, as riveting as that may sound. All it really means is for an erotica writer to stay true to the genre, the thoughtful use of (perceived) taboo words should have no limitations--so go ahead--write a story that will make your readers upper and lower cheeks burn!

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Savage Cravings May 2010
Insatiable Jul 2010
Let It Bleed Oct 2010
The Selkie Jan 2011
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