 Romance/Love: February 19, 2014 Issue [#6165] |
  Romance/Love
This week: Teens "Going all the Way" in Literature Edited by: Crys-not really here  
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Hello! My name is Crys-not really here , and I am the Editor for the Romance/Love Newsletter this week. I would like to express my opinion regarding a topic recently covered by one of my fellow editors! |
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Teens and "Going all the Way" in Literature
Last week, NaNoNette  wrote a really interesting editorial on writing love stories with underage characters. (See "Romance/Love Newsletter (February 12, 2014)" ) Although I agree with her that writers need to be careful in how they portray young love, I also think that there are some cases where teenagers "going all the way" can be appropriate for the genre, if done tastefully.
I'm talking about the Young Adult (YA) genre of course. Anyone who knows me well knows that I am obsessed with novels written for teens. I find young adult literature to be one of the most inclusive genres out there. Not only does it transcend all other genres (including romance), but it also allows for authors to explore many subjects that aren't usually explored so deeply in other genres, including drugs, alcohol abuse, and sexuality, in a way that can be realistic and not preachy.
While it's fine to read a story about sweet and innocent first love (and there are some well-written ones out there), it's likely that older teens have already experienced, or know someone who has experienced, their first sexual relationship. I don't think we should avoid that topic when writing for teen readers. Most YA novels I have read have not been overly explicit or treated sex gratuitously. Even as an adult, I don't feel weird reading about teen sex when it's written well.
Some things to keep in mind when writing for teens:
 Talking about the decision to "go all the way," or the feelings afterwards, or even the feelings during can be okay, and in fact may help teens who are experiencing their own confusion around the subject.
 There is a fine line between appropriate and inappropriate. If you're not comfortable writing a scene between teens, chances are that teens won't be comfortable reading it either.
 Sex should never replace a story line in YA literature. There is a genre called erotica, and never shall the two genres meet!
My point is, we shouldn't completely shy away from topics that will make our writing more authentic for our audiences, so long as we do it responsibly and with a purpose. |
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Romance/Love Newsletter Editor ISO readers with opinions! Why do you think about this week's newsletter? What topics would you like to see in the future? Have an appropriate poem or short story you'd like to share? Enjoys short, free-verse, non-cliche-filled poetry, stories about love conquering all, long walks on the beach, and cuddles by the fire.  Use the form below  to submit your comments, questions and items! |
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