How to Write Smut: A Comprehensive Guide for Aspiring Erotica Writers
Writing smut (also known as erotica or erotic fiction) is a genre that has gained massive popularity in recent years, thanks in part to the rise of self-publishing and digital media. Whether you’re a seasoned writer looking to branch out into a new genre, or a beginner curious about exploring the world of erotic fiction, this guide will provide you with everything you need to know to get started.
From choosing the right style and tone, to crafting steamy scenes and avoiding common pitfalls, we’ll cover all the essentials of writing smut. And if you have any questions or concerns along the way, our FAQs section will provide the answers you need.
So get ready to unleash your creative side and start penning your very own erotic tales. Whether you’re aiming for a straightforward sex scene or a complex storyline with emotional depth, we’ll help you make your writing sizzle!
First of All, What Is Smut?
Before we dive into the details of how to write smut, let’s make sure we’re all on the same page about what this genre actually entails.
Smut (also known as erotica or erotic fiction) is a form of literature that focuses on sexual themes and imagery. It often involves explicit descriptions of sexual acts, nudity, and other adult content.
While smut has been around for centuries (think back to the works of the Marquis de Sade and the anonymous author of the Kama Sutra), it has gained wider recognition in recent years thanks to the rise of digital media and the self-publishing industry. Nowadays, anyone can write and publish their own smutty stories online, which has helped make the genre more accessible than ever before.
What Kind of Smut Should You Write?
One of the first things to consider when writing smut is the style and tone you want to use. There are many different kinds of smut, each with its own unique style and approach.
Here are a few of the most popular smut sub-genres:
Romance: Romance-oriented smut focuses on the emotional relationship between the characters, typically leading up to and following the sexual encounter. This genre often includes a healthy dose of emotional tension, as well as more descriptive language to emphasize the emotional component of the story.
BDSM: BDSM smut involves themes of power play, dominance, and submission. These stories often include elements of punishment, restraint, and humiliation.
Fantasy: Fantasy-oriented smut often involves non-human characters or supernatural elements, such as mermaids, vampires, or other mythical creatures. These stories can be playful or dark, depending on the author’s intent.
Same-sex: This sub-genre focuses on same-sex relationships, portraying various forms of love or desire between people of the same gender.
Of course, these sub-genres are not mutually exclusive and many smut stories combine elements of several of them.
Tips for Writing Successful Smut
Now that you’ve got an idea of what kind of smut you want to write, let’s dive into some tips for making your story a success.
1. Build a Strong Foundation
Before you start putting words on paper, it’s important to create a strong foundation for your story. This might involve mapping out the characters’ personalities, outlining the plot, or researching any pertinent subjects or settings.
By taking the time to create a solid foundation, you’ll be better equipped to flesh out your story more easily, rather than getting bogged down during the writing process.
2. Use Sensory Details
One of the keys to successful smut is using sensory details to create a vivid and immersive experience for your reader. This means describing not just the physical sensations of sex, but also the setting, the sounds, and the emotions of the characters involved.
For example, rather than simply writing “they had sex,” try describing the feeling of skin against skin, the sound of breathing growing labored, and the overwhelming heat of passion. By incorporating sensory details, you’ll create a more memorable and exciting story.
3. Use Dialogue Effectively
Dialogue is a powerful tool in any story, and smut is no exception. By having your characters talk during sex, you can deepen their emotional connection and add an extra layer of intimacy to the scene.
However, it’s important to use dialogue effectively. Too much talking can become distracting or awkward, while too little can prevent the characters from fully communicating their desires and needs.
4. Avoid Clichés and Tropes
Smut is a genre that often relies on a few common tropes or stereotypes, such as the innocent virgin, the dominant alpha male, or the fiery seductress. While these can be used effectively in some cases, they can also become stale or repetitive if overused.
To create a more nuanced and original story, try to avoid relying solely on these tropes. Instead, consider how you can subvert expectations or breathe new life into stale clichés.
5. Revise and Edit Diligently
Like any piece of writing, smut requires plenty of revision and editing to be successful. This means going back through your story multiple times to catch any errors or inconsistencies, as well as tweaking the language and pacing to create a more cohesive and engaging narrative.
Consider having someone else read your work as well, as an outside perspective can often catch things that you might not have noticed yourself.
FAQs on Writing Smut
Still have questions about writing smut? Here are some common queries that aspiring erotica writers might have:
Q: Is it okay to write kinky or taboo content?
A: As long as you’re not glorifying or promoting harmful behaviors (such as violence or non-consensual sex), it’s generally okay to write about kinky or taboo content. However, be aware that some publishers or audiences might have limits on what they’re willing to read. It’s always a good idea to do your research and check any submission guidelines carefully.
Q: How do I avoid sounding cheesy or ridiculous?
A: Cheesy or ridiculous content can be a risk for any writer, but it’s especially true in smut. To avoid this, try to focus on sensory details and avoid clichés or overused phrases. Remember, it’s not about trying to sound “sexy,” but rather about creating a compelling and engaging story.
Q: How do I write a successful sex scene?
A: As with any scene, a successful sex scene depends on a variety of factors, including pacing, tension, and character development. Try to build up to the scene gradually, and use descriptive language to create a vivid and immersive experience. Don’t be afraid to experiment with different styles or approaches until you find one that works for you.
Q: Do I need to use explicit language in my writing?
A: Not necessarily. While explicit language can add an extra layer of intensity to a scene, it’s not the only way to create a steamy story. Rather than relying solely on graphic descriptions, try to use sensory details and emotional depth to create a more nuanced and impactful story.
Conclusion
Writing smut can be a fun and rewarding way to stretch your creative muscles and explore topics that might not be appropriate for other genres. By keeping these tips and guidelines in mind, you’ll be well on your way to crafting compelling and engaging erotic fiction. So put on your writing cap and get ready to make your readers swoon!