Pornography vs. Erotica: I have the answer! (as a writer)

[elfs]

You are writing erotica when you write a sex scene with the knowledge that the reader is expecting the scene to reveal something important about the characters, or to solve or create an existing point of the plot, or results in one or both of the characters having a personal crisis or revelation themselves during or because of it, and that the reader will be disappointed if such a moment is not in the chapter.

You are writing porngraphy when you write a sex scene with the knowledge that the reader is expecting a sex scene, will be disappointed if one is not forthcoming soon, and will get annoyed if any of that plot stuff gets in the way of watching the characters get off.

Comments

[leethomps.livejournal.com]

Is it wrong to like both? :P

[areitu.livejournal.com]

And being a reader of your writing, I've had the pleasure of experiencing some of the best erotica I've ever read.

[abostick59.livejournal.com]

"Embrace the power of 'And'...."

[acelightning.livejournal.com]

[heofmanynames.livejournal.com]

nah, judges are notoriously easy marks, it's almost unfair to notice....

Well done, Elf: I think you've got it!

[scyllacat.livejournal.com]

By Jove, I think you have something there... or at least something I'll definitely be keeping in mind the next time I'm trying to decide where to go with a scene. :)

[sarienpalth.livejournal.com]

Yep. Elf's on it; it not only extends to writing, but roleplaying as well.

[jenk]

reveal something important about the characters, or to solve or create an existing point of the plot, or results in one or both of the characters having a personal crisis or revelation themselves during or because of it, and that the reader will be disappointed if such a moment is not in the chapter.

...or in Laurell K Hamilton's case, create or reawaken some dormant power or ability. Sometimes I think the Merry Gentry series is "newbie Wiccan exploring all the implications of the Great Rite" ;)

[elfs.livejournal.com]

Ooooh. What a great idea for a story. I've been trying to figure out what to do with the Reverend Butler. Now I think I know.

[nicedaisy.livejournal.com]

You're right here, but sometimes an erothic scene can has no place because the subject has such an aim.