How to Write Erotica 🫦
🎙️ New episode: Rachel Kramer Bussel gives a mini-tutorial on writing sexy stories
Hey there sexy Bleeders,
Are you ready to spice up your inbox? This week on The Bleeders podcast, I had the pleasure of interviewing Rachel Kramer Bussel—a literary workhorse in the world of erotica. Having edited over 70 erotica anthologies, a writing guidebook (How to Write Erotica), and editing a popular Substack
, Rachel’s resume is practically dripping with expertise (see what I did there?).Whether you’re curious about writing erotica or simply intrigued by the horny art of turning fantasies into compelling fiction, you’re in for a treat. Rachel gave us a mini masterclass during our conversation, and I’m eager to share some highlights to inspire your own creative sexcapades.
1. Start small and close to home
Rachel suggests drawing inspiration from what’s literally in front of you. Daily life is ripe with raw material. She loves giving prompts like: Write erotica set in a chair.
Sounds simple, right? But think about it: a chair could mean a barstool, an office chair, or a plush armchair—and who’s on the chair? The possibilities are endless.
Her tip: Let your imagination roam beyond the bedroom to places like rooftops, basements, or, dare I say, the DMV (yes, she even made that hot).
2. Get inspired by the world around you
Rachel’s sexy storytelling magic often begins with eavesdropped conversations, random subway ads, or even dating profiles. She once spun a tale inspired by Necessary Roughness (a show I worked on as a writers’ assistant!) without even watching it.
The takeaway: Don’t underestimate the power of a catchy phrase or headline—anything can spark a story.
3. Write what turns you on (at first)
Not sure where to start? Go with something you’re naturally intrigued by. Rachel emphasizes that your initial attempts at erotica don’t need to tackle the most challenging fetishes or far-fetched fantasies. If it excites you, your writing will carry that energy.
And once you’ve found your groove, you can explore beyond your personal wheelhouse—maybe even into the fantastical realm of fire-eating erotica (yes, she’s done it).
4. Transcribing real life ≠ fiction
Rachel shared a hilarious yet insightful anecdote about writing a story based on her first lap dance at Cheetah’s in LA. While the story included elements of her real experience, it was crafted into something different. As she put it, “It’s not just about dictating what happened—it’s about choosing, shaping, and massaging the details to tell a compelling story.”
So, Bleeders, if you’re flirting with the idea of putting pen to paper in a freaky deaky sort of way, Rachel’s tips are an open invitation to get naughty, get creative, and most importantly, have fun with your writing.
🎧 Tune into the latest episode of The Bleeders to hear our conversation.
📚 Rachel Kramer Bussel's book, How to Write Erotica, is available for all your steamy storytelling needs.
Until next time,
Courtney
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Try the “chair prompt,” I need to know what you come up with. Hit reply and let me know!
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Great interview full of helpful tips and insights, and love how it's all backed up by Rachel's experience of having edited over 70 erotica anthologies — truly amazing and inspiring.