Photo by Valentin Antonucci: https://www.pexels.com/photo/person-tossing-globe-1275393/
Where we write shapes what we write. And often, how we write. The space we inhabit—its rhythms, energies, and surroundings—can either nourish or disrupt our creative flow. As writers, we don’t just work from our minds or hearts. We work from the ground beneath our feet, the sky above our heads, and everything in between.
Let’s explore how the place you call home weaves itself into your writing practice.
Geography Shapes Your Mood
Are you near a wild forest, a roaring ocean, a sprawling desert, or tucked into a city that never sleeps?
Your natural environment leaves fingerprints on your inner life. A misty morning in the Pacific Northwest might call up introspection and melancholy prose, while bright, dry light in the Southwest could ignite a crisp, clear voice. The ever-changing sky, the scent of the air, the texture of the landscape—these all become part of your writing palette.
Pay attention to how your surroundings influence the emotional tone of your work.
Rhythm of Life: Fast or Slow?
The pace of the world outside your door often becomes the pace of your days.
In rural settings, time may stretch. There’s quiet between tasks, longer pauses, more room to meander. In cities, there’s movement, urgency, sound. This doesn’t make one better than the other—some writers thrive on stillness, others on the energy of bustle and chaos. What matters is whether your environment aligns with the kind of writer you are, or want to be.
Does the tempo of your city or town support your natural creative rhythm—or push against it?
Your Writing Space as a Mirror
Whether you have a room of your own or a corner of the kitchen table, your physical space affects your focus and sense of self as a writer.
Clutter may drain you. Beauty may feed you. Even something as simple as lighting a candle or playing soft music can shift your inner atmosphere and make space for words to emerge.
Ask yourself: what’s one small change I could make to my space that would help me show up more fully to the page?
Community and Creative Energy
Does your city or town have a vibrant writing community—or are you building your practice in solitude?
Living near bookstores, workshops, or other writers can feed your sense of belonging and inspiration. But not everyone has access to that. If you’re in a more isolated place, you might need to create your own writing coven—whether through online communities, virtual writing groups, or long-distance writing dates.
Writers need each other. If your current location doesn’t offer that easily, you’re not alone—but you may need to be more intentional in seeking connection.
Land, Energy, and Spirit
This might be the most subtle—and powerful—aspect of place.
Some lands are rich with creative energy. Others resist it. The energetic imprint of a place—its history, ancestors, spirits, or even trauma—can either open or block creative flow.
If the land you live on doesn’t feel like it’s supporting your writing, consider ways to enter into relationship with it. Walk it. Listen to it. Leave offerings. Ask permission. Speak your intentions. Writing is an act of co-creation—with your inner self, and with the world around you.
Routine Is Shaped by Place
Where you live impacts how you structure your days. A long commute might drain your energy. Living near a park might give you access to restorative walks. Harsh winters might make you hibernate—and write more. Or less.
Notice how the structure of your days is shaped by your location—and how you might gently reshape it to create more time, space, or stillness for writing.
Likewise, moving to a new home space—whether eagerly or reluctantly—can bring a whole new energy to your writing life. It can disrupt your routines… but also invite you to rebuild them more intentionally.
Writing the Place You Live
Where you live might end up inside your stories, too. Your place can become a character—a living, breathing presence on the page.
Even if you’re not setting your story locally, the texture of your environment often seeps into your metaphors, your pacing, your dialogue.
Let yourself be influenced. Let yourself notice.
Longing for Elsewhere
Sometimes, the place you live isn’t your creative home.
That’s okay.
You can still write. You can still thrive. Writing becomes the bridge between where you are and where your spirit wants to be. You can conjure other worlds, craft alternate lives, or simply create a sacred writing space that feels like your truest home—even if it’s just a small desk in the corner of an apartment that doesn’t quite fit.
Writing allows you to live many lives. Use it.
Conjure a Writing Practice, Wherever You Are
Even if you can’t change your address, you can change your relationship to place.
Create rituals. Build an altar. Carry a notebook outside. Write in bed. Light incense. Find a favorite tree. Your writing practice can become an act of grounding, of claiming space, of weaving your soul into the land you’re on—even if it’s just for now.
Where you live matters. But it doesn’t have to define you. You can write with your place, through your place, or in spite of your place.
The key is to notice. To listen. And to shape your writing life intentionally, rooted in the real magic of where you are.
Want help tuning your writing practice to your current environment? Drop a comment or come join me in the Alchemy of Writing Membership Group—where we explore the craft, ritual, and rhythm of the writing life together.
One of the main reasons writers get discouraged or disillusioned about getting published is because they leave themselves at the mercy of other people.
I’m here to tell you: you don’t have to.
Here, I take a bird’s eye view of a few publishing options available to us all, how they work, which one I chose and why.
Traditional Publishing
This is the realm of the Big 5: the five major publishing houses that dominate the industry. If you’re aiming for traditional publishing, the first thing you need is an agent. You pitch your manuscript, and if an agent is interested, they’ll request a portion of it—anywhere from 10 pages to 50, or sometimes the full first chapter.
If they like what they read, they’ll ask for the full manuscript. And if they still like it, they’ll offer you a contract. (Time to get excited… cautiously.)
That contract is where things get real. It’s wise to have a literary attorney look it over. You’ll want to know how royalties work, how long the publisher controls your book’s fate, and just how much ownership you’re signing over. Also, don’t say yes to the first agent who shows interest unless they feel like the right fit. This is a business relationship, but it should have a vibe puts you at ease. At least, in my opinion.
Once signed, your agent shops your manuscript to publishers. And then you wait. Sometimes a long time. Sometimes, forever. Some authors get multiple offers. Some get ghosted. It’s a gamble.
If a publisher says yes, great! But know this: they might change your title, and they choose your cover art. They decide how your book is marketed and distributed. And these days, authors are expected to do most of their own marketing. You may get an advance, but it probably won’t be huge, and royalties often go toward paying that off first.
And one last note—if you’re writing non-fiction, you’ll need to submit a proposal, not a finished manuscript (at first). That proposal needs to excite the recipient and entice them to want to take the next steps. A proposal of this kind also must include a marketing plan and three sample chapters.
Small Presses
Still within the traditional realm, small presses offer a more personal touch. You pitch them directly, just like you would an agent. They’ll handle editing, printing, and marketing—but their reach can vary dramatically. Some are amazing. Some… not so much.
A friend of mine got accepted by a small press within half an hour of submitting her memoir. Sounds great, right? But then they skipped the editing process entirely. Yikes.
Do your homework. You probably won’t get an advance, but you might see better royalties and more input on cover art and title. Publishing timelines are usually similar to the Big 5—up to two years.
Hybrid Publishing
Hybrid publishing is exactly what it sounds like: a mix of traditional and indie. You pay upfront (usually $2K–$4K+), and in return, you get editing, design, printing, marketing support, and distribution guidance. You keep more control, but it comes at a cost.
Marketing help can be minimal, or not. The good news is that you won’t be doing any of this completely alone. Some hybrid publishers offer tiered packages so you can choose what support you want.
Self-Publishing vs. Independent Publishing
There’s a subtle but important difference here.
Self-publishing means you do everything yourself—editing, design, layout, printing, marketing. You can use platforms like IngramSpark or Amazon KDP to upload your manuscript, but be careful. A Word doc isn’t enough. Interior layout matters. Your book can end up looking amateurish if you’re not careful.
Independent publishing means you still control everything, but you build your own team—editors, designers, illustrators, etc. You’re the boss, but you’re not alone.
Ali, the founder of Indigo Editing here in Portland, explained this beautifully in a Q&A I attended. With independent publishing, the timeline is shorter—usually about one year—and your book gets the professional polish it deserves.
The Path I Chose
After three years of pitching Miranda’s Garden and receiving two yeses that ultimately didn’t pan out, I decided I was done waiting for someone else to give me permission to publish my book.
I chose independent publishing.
One of those yeses came from a hybrid publisher that wasn’t transparent about their model. They appeared to be a small press, and I didn’t know they were hybrid until I received the contract. They required a $4K investment, which is a reasonable ask, but not when you aren’t up front about it. Not a great way to start a relationship, so I said, “no thanks.”
The other yes was from an agent who loved my protagonist. But… I didn’t see her acceptance email until 10 months later. I was mortified. I reached out, but never heard back. After I regrouped, I chalked it up to Divine intervention and moved on, figuring there’s a better path for me.
This past December, I committed to publishing independently. After that Q&A with Ali at Indigo, I booked a one-on-one with her. She walked me through the process, gave me quotes, which was a big help to get me started with budgeting and planning.
Is it cheap? No. But it’s doable.
And the best part? I get to choose my title. I get to commission original cover art. I’ve already started planning public readings, a crowdfunding campaign, and a book tour. I may not be wealthy (yet), but I believe the right support—and the money—will show up. I have faith.
Miranda’s Garden will be out in the world within a year. And that feels damn good.
In the writing world, inclusivity is more than just a trend. It’s a necessity, and especially considering the current political climate we’re faced with. As writers, it’s important to give serious thought to what we bring to the world through our words. Because words have power and the effects of our stories can be far-reaching.
Creating stories that reflect our diverse world and offering readers from all backgrounds the opportunity to see themselves on the page is essential to evolving as storytellers so we can do our part to make the world a better place. But what does inclusive writing mean, and why does it matter? Let’s take a look at the principles of inclusive writing, why it’s essential, and how you can integrate it into your work.
What Is Inclusive Writing?
Inclusive writing is the practice of consciously crafting language, characters, and narratives that represent a broad spectrum of human experiences. It seeks to avoid biases, stereotypes, and exclusion while representing different identities, abilities, cultures, and perspectives with accuracy and respect.
This approach, of course, applies across various forms of writing, from fiction and nonfiction to marketing materials and academic writing. At its core, inclusive writing is about being intentional and thoughtful in the words you choose and the stories you tell. For this post, the focus is on fiction.
Some key aspects of inclusive writing include:
Diverse Character Representation—Creating characters from different racial, ethnic, gender, and ability backgrounds without reducing them to stereotypes.
Respectful Language—Using words that align with how groups self-identify and avoiding outdated or offensive phrasing.
Accessibility Considerations—Taking care to use language that is clear, readable, and available in formats that accommodate people with disabilities.
Avoidance of Harmful Tropes—Steering clear of clichés or oversimplified portrayals that misrepresent or diminish certain groups.
Why Inclusive Writing Matters
Political correctness, respect, and compassion are only part of the reason behind the need for inclusive writing. It’s also about authenticity and responsibility. Inclusive writing strives to do the following:
Reflect the Real World
The world is diverse, so the stories we tell should be too. Readers connect deeply with stories that acknowledge and celebrate different identities, experiences, and perspectives, especially when they see and live them every day, whether through their own lived experience or in the experiences of those around them.
Encourage Empathy and Understanding
Stories have the power to shape perceptions. When readers encounter characters and narratives that differ from their own experiences, they’re presented with an opportunity to learn and develop a greater understanding of others.
Create a Wider Audience
Writing inclusively broadens your readership. When people see themselves accurately and respectfully depicted on the page, they are more likely to engage with and share your work.
Challenge Harmful Norms
Literature has historically been shaped by dominant narratives that exclude or misrepresent marginalized groups. Inclusive writing helps to dismantle these outdated perspectives and structures and push for more equitable storytelling.
Enhance Creativity
A commitment to inclusivity encourages richer, more complex storytelling, which will both push you as a writer and make your stories better. It will also allow you to explore new perspectives, settings, and conflicts that you might otherwise overlook.
Examples of Inclusive Writing
To put these principles into action, here are several ways to make your writing more inclusive:
Use Gender-Neutral Language
Instead of defaulting to masculine terms, opt for gender-neutral alternatives.
Instead of Mankind, use Humanity or Humankind
Instead of Chairman, use Chairperson or Chairwoman
Instead of He or she, use They (when applicable)
Develop Well-Rounded Characters
Avoid tokenism by ensuring that diverse characters have depth and agency. A character’s identity should be an integral part of who they are, but not their only defining trait.
Example: Instead of a one-dimensional LGBTQ+ character whose entire personality revolves around that identity, create a fully fleshed-out individual with hobbies, relationships, and personal struggles beyond their sexuality or gender identity.
Example: Instead of a flat, cardboard character of color who serves only as support to enhance the white protagonist’s quest, write them as a well-rounded human being with capabilities, likes and dislikes, and desires found in anyone, and give them equal time, energy, and importance in the story and its outcome.
Be Mindful of Cultural Representation
When writing about cultures different from your own, research thoroughly and avoid exoticizing or appropriating elements without understanding their significance.
Example: Instead of depicting an Indigenous character as a mystical guide, explore the nuances of their lived experiences and traditions with depth and accuracy.
Example: Rather than leaning on stereotypes, put characters of cultural backgrounds different from your own in real scenarios—a Latina character pursuing a cure for a disease while attempting to maintain difficult family ties, a Black character as a successful entrepreneur with a case of imposter syndrome, or an Asian character pursuing a career as a ballerina who also has a chronic illness.
Represent Disabilities Accurately and Respectfully
Characters with disabilities should not be defined solely by their conditions, nor should they be used as inspirational props.
Example: Instead of portraying a blind character as having “superhuman” hearing, depict them as an individual navigating the world in a way that aligns with real-life experiences.
Example: Rather than write a storyline wherein a disabled character “overcomes” their disability to be “normal,” write a story showing the character’s perseverance in getting the accommodations they deserve, with the world bending to meet them, rather than them being required to “fit in,” or a storyline of a sought-after attorney who requires a wheelchair, with the story being about their expertise and success in winning cases, not about their physical ability.
Be conscious of overused and damaging portrayals of marginalized groups. Some common pitfalls to avoid include:
The “tragic queer” trope (where LGBTQ+ characters are doomed to suffer or die)
The “magical minority” (where a character of color exists only to guide the white protagonist)
The “inspiration porn” approach to disability (where a disabled character exists solely to inspire able-bodied characters)
Final Thoughts
Inclusive writing is an ongoing process of learning, unlearning, and refining your craft. It requires openness, research, and a willingness to engage with feedback. By striving for inclusivity, writers can contribute to a literary world where more people feel seen, valued, and understood.
Whether you’re writing a novel, a short story, or a screenplay, taking the time to consider inclusivity improves your work and helps you create stories that resonate with a diverse and evolving readership. Start small, stay curious, and keep learning. Your words have the power to shape a more inclusive world.
Help me build a list of novels that clearly include inclusivity. Tell me in the comments!
Tropes are everywhere in the world of storytelling. There’s no getting away from them, and honestly, you don’t necessarily want to because tropes are the foundational elements of storytelling.
So, how do you know which tropes to lean on and which tropes to reinvent to keep your stories fresh and inclusive?
It’s first helpful to understand what tropes are.
What are tropes?
Tropes serve as familiar themes or devices that resonate universally with audiences. While clichés can feel overused and predictable, tropes provide a framework upon which you can build innovative and engaging narratives with universal appeal.
Whether your readers know it or not, they expect tropes. Because tropes familiar. Because tropes let them know what kind of story they’re about to commit to.
It’s fair to say that some tropes are tired and overdone, though, and some need to straight up be done away with.
So, what does a writer do, then, when creating story?
Here are ten enduring tropes from literature, film, and TV, along with examples and ways to reinvent them to give your storytelling new sparkle and verve.
1. The Hero’s Journey
This archetypal narrative follows a protagonist who heads out on an adventure, faces and overcomes a central crisis, and returns transformed. Joseph Campbell is known for creating this structure.
Why readers like it The hero’s journey resonates with readers because it mirrors the human experience of growth and self-discovery.
Examples The Odyssey by Homer Star Wars by George Lucas The Lion King by Irene Mecchi, Jonathan Roberts, and Linda Woolverton The Lord of the Rings by J.R.R. Tolkien The Hunger Games by Suzanne Collins
How to reinvent Introduce unexpected twists, make the hero flawed or morally ambiguous, change the nature of the “call to adventure,” have a non-traditional “ordinary world,” or even reverse the journey with the hero starting in the extraordinary world and the purpose of the quest being to return to normalcy.
2. Enemies to Lovers
A staple in romance narratives, this trope involves characters who begin with animosity toward each other and by the end develop romantic feelings for each other. The transformation from hostility to love allows for deep character development and engaging tension.
Why readers like it Enemies to lovers reminds readers of deep emotional and psychological dynamics that make for compelling storytelling and that delivers powerful emotional release with attention to character growth and depth along the way. It also draws upon our culturally—and quite possibly, biologically—embedded belief that love conquers all.
Examples Pride and Prejudice by Jane Austen You’ve Got Mail by Nora Ephron and Delia Ephron Dirty Dancing by Eleanor Bergstein Veronica Mars by Rob Thomas The Proposal by Peter Chiarelli
How to reinvent Focus on creating complex reasons for their initial conflict, explore nuanced character development beyond simply “hating” each other, add unexpected twists to their dynamic, and incorporate paths to self-discovery or personal growth that drive their attraction by the end.
3. The Chosen One
The Chosen One trope centers on a protagonist destined to fulfill an important role or prophecy, often possessing unique abilities or qualities. This trope typically highlights themes like destiny, responsibility, and an individual’s impact on the world.
Why readers like it Readers love this trope because it resonates with the human desire for a sense of purpose and destiny, often overcoming challenges to fulfill a greater good. It can also be seen as a form of wish fulfillment, where an ordinary person is thrust into an extraordinary situation with special abilities, providing a sense of excitement and potential for personal growth.
Examples The Matrix by The Wachowskis (Lana and Lilly) The Gilded Ones by Namina Forna Infinity Son by Adam Silvera The Chronicles of Narnia by C.S. Lewis The Bible
How to reinvent Subvert expectations by making the chosen one reluctant, flawed, or even ordinary, giving them a complex relationship with their destiny, exploring the burden of their “chosenness,” or have multiple “chosen ones” with different abilities or motivations, all while focusing on their personal growth and choices rather than the prophecy or quest itself.
4. The Mentor/Apprentice
The Mentor/Apprentice trope features a wise and experienced character who guides the protagonist, providing wisdom, training, or support. Mentors in this trope are crucial to the protagonist’s development, offering the knowledge and encouragement needed to face challenges.
Why readers like it Readers resonate with this trope because of its relatable, universal appeal—it’s found in every culture. The Chosen One trope provides a satisfying storytelling arc of the protagonist’s path to personal development, which is inspiring to witness.
Examples The Karate Kid by Robert Mark Kamen Dead Poets Society by Tom Schulman Mulan by Xu We (original – 1500) / Rita Hsiao et. al (1998)A Picture of Dorian Gray by Oscar Wilde The Prime of Miss Jean Brodie by Muriel Spark
How to reinvent Explore elements like power dynamic shifts and unexpected mentor-mentee pairings. Give the protagonist more complex motivations, beyond skill acquisition. Subvert the usual by having the “apprentice” teach the “mentor” in certain areas.
5. The Underdog
Everybody loves to cheer for the underdog, the disadvantaged character who overcomes obstacles through sheer determination, integrity, and wit.
Why readers like it The Underdog trope appeals to audiences’ sense of justice and inspires hope.
Examples Rocky by Sylvester Stallone The Pursuit of Happiness by Chris Gardner Spotlight by Tom McCarthy and Josh Singer The Shawshank Redemption by Frank Darabont (adapted from Stephen King’s novel) A League of Their Own by Lowell Ganz and Babaloo Mandel
How to reinvent it Consider complex motivations beyond simply overcoming odds. Add layers to the character’s “underdog” status—how/why did they become an underdog, and was it due to their own past actions? Challenge the typical narrative of “good vs evil” dichotomy. Incorporate unexpected strengths or weaknesses in the protagonist, and focus on the emotional journey of the character rather than the victory itself
6.The Lovable Jerk: Abusive Husband Couched in Humor
The Lovable Jerk trope appears frequently in sitcoms, featuring a husband’s selfish, thoughtless, or even abusive behavior portrayed as comedic. This trope draws criticism because the humor glosses over the harm the husband inflicts on his wife, and audiences are encouraged to laugh instead of explore the deeper implications of these kinds of relationship dynamics.
Why readers/viewers like it Probably not a popular claim, but it seems that mostly men like these types of stories (and I’m sure there are exceptions: men who do not like them and women who do), and usually men who are not aware of how these types of stories are harmful for everyone involved. The Lovable Jerk trope reinforces the unchecked privilege that men enjoy.
Examples The Simpsons by Matt Groening (creator) Family Guy by Seth McFarlane (creator) All in the Family by Norman Lear (developer) Married with Children by Michael G. Moye and Ron Leavitt (creators) King of Queens by Michael J. Weithorn and David Litt (creators)
How to reinvent Watch Kevin Can F*ck Himself on Netflix. This series turns the Lovable Jerk trope on its head by showing the real affect of his behavior on his wife, and how she grapples with the fallout of it.
Try exploring how a wife in this trope comes to terms with why she’s in the relationship, and if and how she will leave it. And if you’re in a giving mood, add layers of complexity to the husband’s motivations and behaviors, showcasing a softer side (if it’s there) through subtle actions. Explore the reasons behind his gruff exterior, while making efforts not to use his “jerk” behavior as an excuse to be malicious.
7. The Desperate Gamble: Drug Deal/Crime Gone Wrong
The Drug Deal/Crime Gone Wrong trope is a classic one that creates instant tension when a planned, straightforward exchange goes awry. Chaos ensues and often results in betrayal, violence, or unintended consequences. This trope thrives on the fragile connections with alliances in high-stakes situations and forces characters into moral dilemmas. Its success lies in unpredictability. When a deal crumbles, it sets off a domino effect that shapes the entire narrative.
Why readers/viewers like it This trope provides a sense of exhilaration and high-level anticipation, while giving readers and viewers a vicarious release for their own personal fantasies. This trope also forces readers and viewers to grapple with the moral complexities of right and wrong, especially when they’re in the position of rooting for the character on the wrong end of the law.
Examples Breaking Bad by Vince Gilligan et al. Good Girls by Jenna Bans (creator) Fear and Loathing in Las Vegas by Hunter S. Thompson No Country for Old Men by Cormack McCarthy Scarface by Oliver Stone
How to reinvent Focus on unconventional players (think housewife turned weed dealer, Nancy Botwin in the series, Weeds). Create unexpected alliances and outcomes for the protagonist.
8. The Elaborate Heist
A great heist story balances meticulous planning with unforeseen complications, forcing characters to adapt on the fly.
Why readers like it Readers/viewers love to root for underdog thieves who outwit the system (and sometimes each other). Likewise, when the thieves are seasoned, readers are drawn in by their intelligence and, oftentimes, charm.
Examples Ocean’s Eleven by Ted Griffin (based on the 1960 version) The Italian Job by Troy Kennedy Martin Heat by Michael Mann Mission Impossible by various (based on 1966 TV version by Bruce Geller) The Bank Job by Dick Clement and Ian La Frenais
How to reinvent Add fresh layers by using unique settings, diverse team members and dynamics, or a twist in motives (e.g., robbing a villain).
9. The Barren Woman
While powerful, this trope can be highly problematic because it reduces and defines women solely by their desire and/or ability to bear children. Stories of this type explore important themes like grief, longing, and unfulfilled desires and also consider identity, worth, and societal pressure. These stories are emotionally charged and can, unfortunately, reinforce stereotypes of infertile women as bitter, broken, and/or irrational. This trope can also include women who have chosen not to have children and the struggles they endure because of their decision.
Why readers like it For some who are struggling with infertility and want a child, this story type can provide validation for their experience (if the story is told with compassion), present possible solutions, and/or help them come to terms with their reality.
Examples The Handmaid’s Tale by Margaret Atwood Heart Choice by Robin D. Owens The House of Eve by Sadeqa Johnson Tears of a Barren Woman by Shadrack Omary Hansel and Gretel by Wilhelm Grimm and Jacob Grim
How to reinvent Strive to create nuanced portrayals that explore how the infertile woman confronts societal expectations, builds alternative legacies, or finds empowerment outside traditional roles. Show the lives of women who have chosen not to have children as full, vibrant, and accomplished, and depict them with the ability to show compassion, rather than using the choice they’ve made as an act of defiance.
10. The Found Family
This trope emphasizes the creation of a family-like bond between people who are not biologically related, sometimes by choice and sometimes by circumstance.
Why readers like it This trope resonates because it celebrates the idea that love and connection can transcend bloodlines, offering hope to those who are alienated or estranged from their birth families.
Examples Guardians of the Galaxy by James Gunn and Nicole Perlman Firefly by Joss Whedon (creator) The Breakfast Club by John Hughes The Sandlot by David Mickey Evans and Robert Gunter A Man Called Ove by Fredrik Backman
How to reinvent Explore unconventional dynamics or the ways found families challenge and redefine traditional family norms. Add complexity by connecting characters with diverse backgrounds and how they resolve internal struggles within the found family unit. Highlight the process of building trust by showing a “found family” that is initially antagonistic and gradually learns to rely on each other.
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Understanding tropes will allow you to craft stories that connect deeply with readers and viewers. The key is to infuse them with unique twists, while keeping them engaging and preventing them from becoming clichés.
Incorporating these timeless tropes thoughtfully, with creative innovation, can enhance storytelling and provide familiar touchstones that offer fresh and compelling narratives.
This short list is only a beginning to exploring the vast array of tropes.
What are some tropes you like and don’t like?
How have you seen overused or outdated tropes refreshed?
Photo by Rodolfo Clix: https://www.pexels.com/photo/woman-with-lighted-match-graphic-wallpaper-922511/
Like it or hate it, the novel Fifty Shades of Grey ushered in a more mainstream acceptance of erotic storylines. The genre has become so popular, three German academics conducted a study to understand the trend. They discovered that this genre’s audience generally consists of highly educated, emancipated, feminist, progressive women from a broad age span who cite reasons for embracing the genre as “distraction and feelings of ease.”
Writing erotica can be exciting and rewarding, and it’s a craft that requires sensitivity, skill, and sophistication. Whether you’re new to the genre or looking to refine your technique, understanding the essential rules for writing erotica will help you create stories that captivate and resonate with readers devoted to the genre.
Why not add to the cannon of this growing and more accepted genre?
Feeling shy about what your friends and family might think or say if they were to read your erotica? That’s what pen names are for!
Here are some important guidelines to keep in mind when venturing into the world of writing erotica.
1. Know Your Audience
Erotica is a diverse genre with a wide variety of sub-genres and reader expectations. Some readers enjoy explicit and adventurous scenarios, while others prefer subtle, romantic depictions of love and intimacy. Before you start. your first draft, take the time to:
Research the market—Read works by successful authors in the genre, and if there’s a sub-genre that calls to you, find those, too.
Identify your niche—Decide if your story will focus on contemporary romance, mystery, gothic, LGBTQ+ relationships, or other themes.
Understand tone and style—Know what your audience prefers, whether it’s poetic and sensual or direct and raw, based on the genre you’re working with
Knowing your audience will help guide your choices in word choice, tone, themes, and plot development.
2. Prioritize Consent and Boundaries
Writing erotica means being responsible and consent-focused. In fact, it’s a cornerstone of the genre these days. No matter who the characters are or the intensity of the scenes, all interactions should be consensual. Make it clear that both parties are participating in the events of their own free will and that their boundaries are respected.
Explicit consent—Show characters communicating their desires and limits.
Nonverbal cues—Use body language and reactions to reinforce mutual enthusiasm.
Avoid problematic tropes—Stay away from scenarios that could be interpreted as coercive or non-consensual unless they are explicitly negotiated role-play.
Including clear consent not only adds realism to your work, but it also keeps it ethical.
3. Create Well-Developed Characters
Erotica is more than a bunch of explicit scenes. Readers need and want to care about the characters in your story before they’re going to care about the intimate scenes you write. Invest time in creating:
Relatable personalities—Give your characters human strengths, flaws, and unique quirks. What are their desires, why do they have them, and how do they go about realizing them?
Genuine connections—Show emotional chemistry alongside physical attraction. Creating connections of substance adds depth to your story and helps readers connect with your characters emotionally.
Distinct motivations—Strive for authentic and grounded personalities in your characters, especially when it comes to their desires and choices. Always ask yourself: Why does she want that? Why is she behaving this way?
When your characters are fully realized, their intimate moments will feel more meaningful and compelling.
4. Set the Scene
There’s no “perfect” setting for erotica because, well… Human attraction is human attraction. But… setting plays a crucial role in erotic stories. It can heighten tension and establish mood, and sometimes become like a character itself. Whether your story takes place in a luxurious penthouse, a secluded forest, or a chocolate shop, vivid descriptions will draw readers into your story world.
Atmosphere—Use sensory details to evoke textures, smells, sounds, and sights that enhance the mood. Draw your readers INTO your scenes.
Metaphor and Symbolism—Incorporate elements of the setting that reflect the characters’ emotions or desires. Using metaphor and symbolism will accomplish this with depth and meaning.
Variety—Experiment with different locations to keep your story dynamic and engaging. Allow your characters to lead vibrant lives that take them to settings that further tell your story.
The environment and setting should be an integral part of the story that enhances the characters’ experiences and interactions.
5. Balance Explicitness and Subtlety
Writing erotica is a balancing act. Readers expect a certain level of explicitness, but keep in mind that graphic or mechanical portrayals of love scenes can dilute the story’s emotional impact. Aim for:
Emotion-driven intimacy—Focus on how the characters feel, both emotionally and physically, and let their feelings drive their behaviors.
Varied pacing—Alternate between quiet, sensual moments and more intense, passionate ones. Think of it as an ebb and flow, a rise and fall. Create a rhythm by engaging readers with tension, then ease up to give them a break.
Avoiding clichés—Craft unique language that evokes feelings and sensations in the reader that parallel those of your characters. Use unexpected analogies and metaphors that lend texture to the language and meaning of your story.
Remember, sometimes less is more. Implied or understated moments can be just as powerful as explicit ones.
6. Develop a Compelling Plot
Erotica doesn’t exist in a vacuum. A strong plot provides context for the intimacy and keeps readers invested in the story. Consider:
Conflict and tension—Introduce challenges that the characters must overcome, whether external obstacles or internal struggles. Give your readers a protagonist they can relate to and root for.
Character growth—Show how the characters evolve through their experiences and relationships. Understanding the psychology and backstory of your characters will help you depict their growth.
Subplots—Incorporate secondary storylines to add depth and complexity so long as they don’t detract from the central storyline.
A well-crafted plot ensures that your story remains engaging beyond the intimate scenes.
7. Respect Diversity and Representation
Erotica has the power to explore diverse identities, relationships, and experiences. Writing with inclusivity in mind broadens your audience and enriches your storytelling.
Avoid stereotypes—Create multidimensional characters rather than relying on clichéd or reductive portrayals.
Research—If you’re writing about identities or cultures outside your own experience, consult authentic sources and rely on sensitivity readers. Contemporary readers are too savvy for easy answers or stereotypical cardboard characters.
Celebrate variety—Explore different body types, genders, sexual orientations, and relationship dynamics. Make your cast of characters as diverse as the people you see around you.
Authentic representation enhances the emotional resonance and relatability of your work. It also builds trust with your audience.
8. Revise and Edit Thoroughly
First drafts are rarely perfect, especially in erotica, where tone, pacing, and language are critical. Take the time to:
Check for consistency—Ensure characters’ actions and emotions align with their established personalities. Again, always ask questions: Would she behave this way? What would she do?
Refine language—Polish descriptions to make them vivid and engaging without being overly flowery or repetitive.
Seek feedback—Share your work with trusted critique partners or beta readers to identify areas for improvement. Regardless of the genre, it’s always wise to get feedback.
Editing is where your story truly comes to life, so take the time to make your words sing.
9. Know the Rules to Break Them
It’s true that writing rules and guidelines provide a solid foundation for any writer or genre. It’s also true that erotica is a creative genre that thrives on innovation and risk-taking. Once you understand the basics, feel free to:
Experiment with unconventional formats, such as diary entries or epistolary style, or try unique structuring devices or code switching.
Blend genres. Think: mystery, fantasy, or sci-fi.
Subvert tropes and challenge readers’ expectations. Avoid going with the first idea you have. Take the time to explore how to deepen and strengthen your characters to show readers stories they haven’t read before.
Breaking the rules thoughtfully can lead to new, intriguing stories that stand out in the genre.
10. Write with Authenticity and Passion
The most compelling erotica comes from a place of authenticity. Write what excites and inspires you, and your enthusiasm will shine through in your work.
Be fearless—Don’t shy away from exploring bold or taboo themes, as long as they’re handled with care. This is where your best writing will have room to rise to the surface.
Stay true to your voice—Let your unique perspective and style infuse your writing. There’s no one like you in the world, so lean on that when you write.
Enjoy the process—Writing erotica should be as pleasurable and fulfilling as reading it. Have fun!
When you write with genuine passion, your stories will resonate with readers and leave a lasting impression.
Conclusion
Writing erotica is a challenging yet rewarding craft that requires creativity, sensitivity, and skill. By following these rules, you’ll be well-equipped to create stories that are not only passionate and intimate but also meaningful and memorable. So, dive in with an open mind, and don’t be afraid to push boundaries. Your readers are waiting to be captivated by the story worlds you create.
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Ten notable erotica novels that have won the attention of readers with their sensual themes and compelling narratives.
Fifty Shades of Grey by E.L. James—This novel explores the complex relationship between a college graduate and a young business magnate, and explores themes of dominance and submission.
The Siren by Tiffany Reisz—This book is part of ‘The Original Sinners’ series. It blends romance and intrigue, and introduces readers to an erotica author with a provocative personal life.
Bared to You by Sylvia Day—This story follows two individuals with troubled pasts as they navigate a tumultuous, passionate relationship.
Ice Planet Barbarians by Ruby Dixon—A unique blend of science fiction and erotica, this novel tells the story of a woman abducted by aliens who finds unexpected romance on an icy planet.
The Duke and I by Julia Quinn—The first book in the ‘Bridgerton’ series, this novel combines historical romance with sensual storytelling.
A Court of Mist and Fury by Sarah J. Maas—This fantasy novel intertwines erotic romance with a richly built world, perfect for fans of ‘romantasy.’
The Claiming of Sleeping Beauty by Anne Rice (as A.N. Roquelaure)—This novel puts an erotic twist on a retelling of the classic fairy tale, and explores themes of power and submission.
Gifting Me to His Best Friend by Katee Robert—Part of the ‘A Touch of Taboo’ series, this novella explores unconventional desires in a consensual setting.
Lady Chatterley’s Lover by D.H. Lawrence—Thisclassic novel delves into the affair between a young married woman and her gamekeeper, challenging the conventions of the era in which it was written.
Delta of Venus by Anaïs Nin—A collection of erotic short stories that explore the complexities of sexual desire and human relationships.
