Like many (most?) writers, I aspire to write across genres. Like any strenuous exercise, that calls for some stretching. In addition to reading what’s current and/or hot in the genre, it helps to talk with others working in the genre. Today we’re talking with a scribble sibling near/dear to my villainous heart, Jennifer Worrell.
Jennifer wrote the excellent crime novel, Edge of Sundown (read my review, here) and a host of short fiction across genres. Our topic today is erotica. Waits for the squeamish to run for the “back” button. If you’re still here, there will be a thoroughly explicit discussion of the writing process. You’ve been warned.
Now, let’s get SAUCY!
First off, how do you define (for your own reference) “erotica”?
Porn with heart.® The saucy bits are frequent and given as much consideration as the rest of the story. Steamy romance tends to focus more on relationships, and straight-up porn tends to skim over the story in favor of setup and action.
What was your introduction to the form? Do you have a favorite subgenre to read and/or write?
A very talented friend writes erotica, and he invited me to join Smut Marathon, a monthly challenge where writers were given prompts and moved up the ranks based on reader votes. I was writing Sundown at the same time and finding excuses to stretch myself. “I’ve tortured X an awful lot. Time to lighten things up. Off with the pants!”
As for the second half of your question, sex scenes can easily get clinical or purple or dull, so I like to read and write erotica with a sense of humor. They play together nicely.
Would you say your stories are more plot, character, or event/scene driven?
Character-driven stories open up so many opportunities. I often have only a basic idea for a plot, followed by brain-crickets over what comes next, then insecurity-led panic and a few fingers of Tullamore. But one character’s decision or lack thereof can lead to a whole chain of events that seem to progress more naturally.
I’ve read that romance novels follow a genre form/norm: the heroine has to be a virgin, younger than the love interest, neither ugly nor conceited, etc.. What do you think are the erotic genre norms/forms?
I don’t read a lot of romance, but I’m aware of the Happily Ever After/Happy for Now standard. I’d say erotica is the same, only readers expect a different kind of happy ending, with both/all parties satisfied. I’m also seeing a lot of inclusivity, maybe more than any other genre, which I love.
Is there a difference between erotica and fetish writing? If so, where is the line?
I think it all comes down to focus. The POV character or narrator’s mindset is directed at one thing, and/or imagery keeps returning to one body part or scenario.
What do you enjoy most about writing erotica?
It’s a fun challenge trying to write the same basic activity a different way every time without fixating on slots and tabs, so to speak. And since most real-life smuttery goes on behind closed doors, unless you’re writing something physically impossible, no one can insist your scenario would never happen. Somebody somewhere has fantasized about that same kink/position/what-have-you.
What is most frustrating?
There are no good words for lady parts. That and weird reactions from readers. Some people assume erotic fiction is an invitation or an advertisement of personal fancies. I write murder too, guys, Jesus Christ. Fiction.
Do you prefer long (form) or short (form) stories?
In terms of reading: both! In terms of writing: I love long form to pieces, though I think I’m better at short. But I’m a stubborn m’f’er, so here we are.
How many Freudian lead-ins do you think we can manage in this interview?
I was hoping for at least one, so I applaud you.
How do you think writing erotica influences your other work?
It’s a fun exercise in character development. What do these people dig, and how do they interact? Sex scenes are also shockingly similar to fight scenes. Only if you do them right, everybody wins.
You mentioned murder—and I’m huge fan. What other genres are you interested in?
It’s stuck in my craw to write in (almost) all of them. It’s so satisfying when you try something new and it works. The downside to writing in multiple genres is marketing. I’m doing a book signing in July, and mine will be one trip of a table.
What genre/subgenre do you hate/have no interest in reading or writing?
I don’t want to dis anybody’s passion. I will say this: I don’t have the brainpower to pull off hard sci-fi or high fantasy, but I give all the props to anyone who does.
Obviously, this interview could've continued—as the conversation did. If not just as obvious, Jennifer is a good friend and swell writer to follow. You can find her here:
The image at the top does not belong to me. Its use here, for educational/instructional purposes is protected under the Fair Use Doctrine.
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