In dramaturgy, a paradigm refers to the fundamental structure of a story—a proven pattern that helps authors organize their narrative and provide readers with a comprehensible development. Particularly in erotic literature, understanding dramatic paradigms can make the difference between a superficial string of scenes and a captivating story that touches both emotionally and physically.
What is a Dramatic Paradigm?
A paradigm in dramaturgy is a structural framework that divides the narrative into different phases. The most well-known is the three-act structure: exposition (introduction), confrontation (development), and resolution (conclusion). Each act fulfills specific functions and moves the story forward through defined turning points.
In erotic literature, this paradigm works particularly effectively because it corresponds to the natural development of desire and fulfillment. The structure creates expectation, builds tension, and leads to a satisfying resolution—both narratively and emotionally.
The Three-Act Structure in Erotic Literature
First Act – The Exposition of Desire Here, characters are introduced and erotic tension is established. This part focuses on the emergence of attraction, first glances, subtle touches, or verbal hints. The art lies in awakening desire without immediately fulfilling it. The first turning point at the end of this act often marks the moment when characters can no longer deny their attraction.
Second Act – The Confrontation with Desire The longest part of the story explores the development of the erotic relationship. Here, conflicts, obstacles, and emotional complexity arise. Perhaps the characters struggle against societal norms, personal fears, or complicated relationship dynamics. The erotic scenes become more intense, but they serve character development and plot. The second turning point leads to the story’s climax—both dramaturgically and possibly metaphorically.
Third Act – The Resolution The final phase brings both emotional and physical fulfillment. Conflicts are resolved, characters find themselves or each other, and erotic tension finds its natural resolution.
Additional Paradigms for Erotic Narratives
The Hero’s Journey Joseph Campbell’s monomyth can be surprisingly well applied to erotic literature. The protagonist leaves their familiar world (perhaps their sexual comfort zone), encounters mentors and challenges, and returns transformed. This structure is particularly suitable for coming-of-age stories or narratives about sexual self-discovery.
The Desire-Obstacle-Fulfillment Paradigm Specifically developed for erotic literature, this pattern follows a cyclical structure: desire emerges, encounters obstacles, is intensified through overcoming them, and finally finds fulfillment—only to awaken new desire.
Practical Application: Structure as Tension Generator
A well-thought-out paradigm helps authors systematically build erotic tension. Instead of arbitrarily stringing together erotic scenes, the structure creates a rhythm of approach and distance, fulfillment and renewed desire.
Timing and Pacing The paradigm dictates when certain developments should occur. Too early fulfillment can dissolve tension prematurely, while excessive delay can frustrate the reader. The structure helps find the right balance.
Character Development Within the paradigm, characters develop not only physically but also emotionally. Their erotic experiences become catalysts for personal growth.
Emotional Depth A solid structural foundation allows the author to go beyond pure physicality and create emotional complexity that makes erotic scenes more meaningful.
The paradigm in erotic literature is far more than a technical tool—it is the key to stories that offer both intellectual and sensual satisfaction. Through the conscious application of dramatic structures, authors can create erotic literature that not only arouses but also touches, moves, and remains memorable.
The best erotic literature combines physical passion with emotional truth, and a well-conceived paradigm provides the framework on which this connection can unfold.