So you’ve decided to write erotic literature? Fantastic! But to ensure your story isn’t just a series of steamy scenes strung together, but one that truly captivates readers, you need a good plot. And for that, plot points are essential. Let’s discover together what plot points are and how you can use them in your erotic stories.
What is a Plot Point?
A plot point is a crucial moment in your story that steers the plot in a new direction. Think of your plot as a car journey: you’re driving along a road, and suddenly you come to an intersection where you must turn. This intersection is your plot point.
Plot points are the moments that surprise your readers, grab them emotionally, and compel them to keep reading because they want to know what happens next.
The Key Plot Points in the Classic Three-Act Model
In classic storytelling, there are two main plot points that structure your story:
Plot Point 1: This appears at the end of the first act (about 25-30% into your story). It catapults your protagonist from their familiar world into a new adventure or challenge.
Plot Point 2: This appears at the end of the second act (about 75% into your story). It leads to the final confrontation and resolution in the third act.
Examples from Film and Literature
Film: Titanic
- Plot Point 1: Jack saves Rose from suicide, and they begin to get to know each other.
- Plot Point 2: The ship hits the iceberg, and now it’s about survival.
Literature: Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone
- Plot Point 1: Harry learns he’s a wizard and will attend Hogwarts.
- Plot Point 2: Harry, Ron, and Hermione decide to save the Philosopher’s Stone from Snape (as they believe).
Plot Points in Erotic Literature
In erotic literature, plot points function just like in any other genre – with a special twist: they can also drive the sexual tension and development of the characters.
Plot Point 1: The Sexual Departure
In erotic literature, the first plot point often marks the moment when the sexual tension between characters becomes explicit. It’s the point where it becomes clear: there’s more than just friendship or a chance encounter.
Example: In “Fifty Shades of Grey,” the first plot point is when Anastasia receives Christian’s contract and is confronted with the world of BDSM. This is the moment that pulls her out of her familiar, “innocent” world.
Plot Point 2: The Sexual Crisis
The second plot point in erotic literature often involves a crisis in the protagonists’ sexual relationship. Perhaps they discover a secret about each other, or their relationship is threatened by external circumstances.
Example: In many erotic novels, the second plot point is a moment of broken trust or a situation where the relationship is put to the test – such as when a third person appears or a partner reveals their true intentions.
How to Write Effective Plot Points
1. Create Emotional Impact
Plot points should be emotionally charged. In erotic literature, they can trigger desire, uncertainty, jealousy, or sexual curiosity.
Tip: Consider what emotions you want to evoke in your readers. Should they be surprised? Aroused? Concerned for the characters?
2. Raise the Stakes
With each plot point, the stakes should get higher. The consequences for your characters must become more significant.
Example: In a story about a secret affair, the first plot point might be that the protagonists are almost discovered. The second plot point could be that one partner issues an ultimatum: “Either we go public, or it’s over.”
3. Connect Sexual and Emotional Development
In good erotic literature, sexual and emotional development go hand in hand. Your plot points should advance both aspects.
Example: A plot point could be that the protagonist lives out a specific sexual fantasy for the first time (sexual development) and through this realizes what she truly wants from her partner (emotional development).
Common Mistakes with Plot Points in Erotic Literature
Sex Without Meaning
The biggest mistake: including sex scenes that don’t advance the plot. Every sexual encounter should influence the story or character development.
Too Predictable Turns
“They meet, they desire each other, they get together, they have a problem, they solve it.” Boring! Surprise your readers with unexpected turns.
Neglecting the Emotional Aspect
Erotic literature isn’t just physical – it’s about desire, passion, and personal growth. Your plot points should reflect these deeper themes.
Exercise: Find Your Plot Points
- Define your main characters and their sexual/romantic goals.
- Consider what event could pull them out of their comfort zone (Plot Point 1).
- Plan a crisis that tests their relationship (Plot Point 2).
- Ensure both points advance both the erotic and emotional levels of your story.
Plot points are the heartbeats of your story. They ensure that your erotic literature isn’t just hot but also captivating. They give your characters depth and your plot direction.
Remember: Good erotic literature combines physical intimacy with emotional development. Your plot points should consider both aspects and both arouse your readers and touch them emotionally.
So, take the time to develop powerful plot points – your readers will thank you with their undivided attention!