Erotica Writing 101

This class will be held LIVE online via Zoom — Zoom links are sent out 3 days prior and then again 1 hour prior to start time. The class will be recorded and available for a limited time shortly following the class. Registration deadline: 1 hour prior to class Pacific. No day-of cancellations.



In this two-hour virtual workshop, Rachel Kramer Bussel, author of How to Write Erotica and editor of over 70 anthologies, will take you through the ins and outs of modern erotic writing. Whether you’re writing about personal passion for a partner or partners or you’re looking to get published, this workshop will help you unlock your creative side and get your fantasies on paper. Learn how to get started, develop your voice, easily find story ideas, pen sex scenes, and write from a wide range of perspectives. Through the use of writing prompts and examples from published erotica, you’ll discover how to incorporate everyday scenarios as well as outlandish fantasies into your writing, and make them fit for particular publications.

Rachel will also cover submitting your work to publications, how to self-publish, serializing your work, pen names, promoting your erotica, developing an avid fan base, and keeping up with the thriving erotica market, including anthologies, ebooks, print books, apps, magazines, and websites.

Please have paper and writing implements or a computer to use for writing exercises. You will have the option to share your work and ask questions. A bibliography with erotica resources will be provided via email. This workshop was designed for beginners to erotic writing, although those at any level may participate. No prior writing experience is required.

Rachel Kramer Bussel is the author of craft guide How to Write Erotica and editor of over 70 anthologies, including Come Again: Sex Toy Erotica, The Big Book of Orgasms, Dirty Dates, Going Down: Oral Sex Stories, and the Best Women’s Erotica of the Year series. Her writing has been published in over 100 anthologies, including Best American Erotica 2004 and 2006 edited by Susie Bright and Succulent: Chocolate Flava II and Purple Panties edited by Zane. She teaches erotica writing workshops around the world. Rachel consults about erotica and sex-related nonfiction at EroticaWriting101.com and writes widely about sex, dating, books and pop culture.

We're offering a limited number of free class spots to folks with financial need; please fill out this form if you are interested. Recipients will be chosen based on need and contacted at least 3 days prior to class to confirm.