Contrary to popular belief, writing erotic romance is not just a case of using some naughty words. Nooooo. The writer is required to include various naughty actions. And. Describe. Them.Now, if you happen to believe that's easy, I challenge you to sit down and write out a scene. Remember you can't just say the lovers did this or that. You must show them doing those things.
Where are their hands? What is her expression? What scents are in the room? Is it light or dark? Are they on a bed? In a tub? Sitting on a chair? In front of a fireplace? Or up against a wall?
There's a reason men prefer pictures. They're direct, unambiguous, and easy to understand. A naked body is a naked body. Women on the other hand enjoy the luxury of imagination sparked by words. The choice of noun or verb can make or break a sensual scene.
A fellow writer and I were brainstorming an alternative for semen. After searching various databases and the Internet, we decided our favorite was sprogspawn. I haven't quite figured out how I'll fit it in a book, but it's too delicious to pass up. I admit that it won't do in my current scene, though. So for now I'll continue my search.
What's you're favorite--pictures or words?
anny
well...sprog is an Aussie word...hmmm...who could that be?
ReplyDeleteHmmm. I don't think there are nearly enough words for semen. I really don't.
ReplyDeleteI think we need more truly sexy names for most of the male anatomy and issue. I've seen some respected authors use some really stupid names for things. My favorites are "seed sacs" and "manroot". I laughed myself silly for about ten minutes. Definitely not conducive to a romantic or sexy mood. And the term seed in general sounds like I'm getting ready to garden.
ReplyDeleteOdd how often we see it from a publisher who seems to think that even though we are writing fantasies, we need to put latex on everything and yet we can't write about why we cover the manroot because procreation is forbidden.