Let’s face it, we have all read some erotic literature that made us cringe, gag or even furiously throw the book against the wall. But have you ever wondered what makes a great piece of erotic fiction? It’s not just steamy sex scenes or graphic descriptions of body parts. A good erotic novel has a strong plot, relatable characters, and a story arc that draws you in until the very last page. In this blog, we will explore the art of plotting in erotic literature.
The importance of a strong plot
The plot is the backbone of any good story, and erotic literature is no exception. The story arc should focus on the growth and development of the characters, not just on their sexual exploits. The plot should have a beginning, middle, and end that captures the reader’s attention and leaves them satisfied. Start by developing a strong central conflict that sets the story in motion. Then, build up tension until it reaches its climax, both figuratively and literally. Finally, resolve the conflict and bring the story to a satisfying conclusion.
Creating relatable characters
Our characters need to be relatable and realistic. You want your readers to connect with them emotionally and root for their success. Avoid one-dimensional characters that are only there for sexual purposes. Give them quirks, fears, and motivations that drive the story forward. Characters should also have flaws and imperfections that make them more human and relatable. A character’s emotional journey should mirror their sexual journey, which will make the erotic scenes even more impactful.
Subtle foreshadowing
One of the essential elements of plotting is foreshadowing. Foreshadowing creates suspense and anticipation, and it can be particularly potent in erotic literature. Use it to hint at future events, tease the reader’s expectations, and build up tension. For example, if a couple is about to have sex, you can add in subtle details that foreshadow something exciting or unexpected. This kind of attention to detail is what sets great erotica apart from mediocre erotica.
The power of setting
Setting is essential in any story, but it’s particularly vital in erotic literature. The right setting creates the mood and atmosphere for the erotic scenes to come. It sets the tone and can even become a character in its own right. Think about how the setting relates to the characters and the story. Is it a private room, a public space, or an exotic location? Does it add tension or complement the characters’ desires? Sensual descriptions of the setting can also enhance the eroticism of a scene.
Balancing erotic content with storytelling
Lastly, remember that erotic literature is still literature. You must balance the erotic content with a compelling story that keeps the reader engaged until the end. Avoid the trap of using sex scenes as filler or overdoing it to the point of cliché. Every sex scene should serve a purpose, whether it’s to further the plot or reveal more about the characters. Above all, aim for authenticity and sensitivity. Erotica that is gratuitous and insensitive can quickly turn readers off and detract from the story.
Erotic literature can be both artistic and sensual when done correctly. To create the perfect novel, a strong plot with relatable characters are required. Sensual descriptions and subtle foreshadowing can create an atmosphere that will entice readers. A well-written “Erotica” novel will contain a balance of sexual content with great storytelling that will keep your readers engaged until the end. It takes effort to come up with an excellent storyline, but it is all worth it when it comes to erotica. Happy writing, authors!
