I once read an interview of a writer of erotic literature. I don’t remember who the writer was, where it was that I read it, or much of what was said. What I do remember, however, has stuck with me since.
One of the questions was along the lines of “Do you get turned on by the things you write?” The author responded by saying that he got turned on by some of his stories, but not all of them. Some of the things he wrote about weren’t his cup of tea.
The primary goal of erotica, by its very definition, is to arouse. With that in mind, how can you expect to turn on your readers with a story that doesn’t turn you on?
Every story I write turns me on to a degree, some more than others, regardless of whether it’s my cup of tea or not. The details and means by which the sex happens are just the facade, the packaging which contains the lust, passion, desire, need, and love that truly drive a piece of erotica.
There should be an underlying excitement that transcends any fetishes or taboos, and as a writer, I should be able to tap into it. Regardless of whether I personally prefer what’s going on in the story, it should be arousing on more than just the surface.
If you’re able to find and exploit this underlying sexuality, despite your own indifference or even dislike of the act you’re describing, imagine how much your readers that are into it will like it.
Let me ask other writers: Have you ever written erotica that didn’t turn you on? If so, how was it received? I’d love to hear your thoughts on the subject.
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