I experienced a revelation recently - an “ah-ha” moment so powerful it changed my whole perception on writing romance. My epiphany? The fact that putting emphasis on sense and sensuality, when well blended into the context of a love story, is just as fulfilling and evocative as open door love making.
Those who know me well realize what a deep impact Stephenie Meyer's writing has had on me as an author. I consider her Twilight saga a masterstroke – not just because of its romantic elements – but because it opened my eyes to the beauty of a love story that engages the senses, and tender, expressive sensuality, without, shall we say, opening the door.
In other words, I'm learning the practice, not just the theory, of putting yourself in the world, not just on it. There's beauty in the ache, and wanting – in the anticipation – and, yes, even in saying no. Explore. Capture. When you write it, actually feel it: The texture and glide of satin on skin, the sweet kiss of a caressing breeze, the scent and warmth of the neck that you nuzzle, the lips that you kiss... how about the spice of an orange slice bursting on your tongue, fed to you by the one you love...?
The possibilities are endless. It's all right there. And it's powerful.
I've written fully explored love making – and in fact I have enjoyed exploring ways to express the most intimate, rich connection we can share. But in some ways I'm changing, and hopefully evolving, as a writer. I'm developing several Christian themed romances – which is something I've always wanted to do – but I needed an idea (or two, or three, or...) to pull me by the heart strongly enough to be deemed worthy.
The ideas finally came, and the love stories are rich with conflict, romance, and, yes, they explore the world of the senses versus strictly the physical. The process has opened up all new doors for me.
Those who know me well realize what a deep impact Stephenie Meyer's writing has had on me as an author. I consider her Twilight saga a masterstroke – not just because of its romantic elements – but because it opened my eyes to the beauty of a love story that engages the senses, and tender, expressive sensuality, without, shall we say, opening the door.
In other words, I'm learning the practice, not just the theory, of putting yourself in the world, not just on it. There's beauty in the ache, and wanting – in the anticipation – and, yes, even in saying no. Explore. Capture. When you write it, actually feel it: The texture and glide of satin on skin, the sweet kiss of a caressing breeze, the scent and warmth of the neck that you nuzzle, the lips that you kiss... how about the spice of an orange slice bursting on your tongue, fed to you by the one you love...?
The possibilities are endless. It's all right there. And it's powerful.
I've written fully explored love making – and in fact I have enjoyed exploring ways to express the most intimate, rich connection we can share. But in some ways I'm changing, and hopefully evolving, as a writer. I'm developing several Christian themed romances – which is something I've always wanted to do – but I needed an idea (or two, or three, or...) to pull me by the heart strongly enough to be deemed worthy.
The ideas finally came, and the love stories are rich with conflict, romance, and, yes, they explore the world of the senses versus strictly the physical. The process has opened up all new doors for me.
But I'm curious. What do you think? What's your take on the topic? I'd love to know and hear your input!
The other step in my evolution has been writing first person. That's the subject of next week's blog...and I'd absolutely love to hear what you think about first person story telling. Do you like it? Hate it? Indifferent to it? Let me know, and let's discuss!
The other step in my evolution has been writing first person. That's the subject of next week's blog...and I'd absolutely love to hear what you think about first person story telling. Do you like it? Hate it? Indifferent to it? Let me know, and let's discuss!
