Is there a difference between smut and erotica?

[Pushkin]

First of all let me say I make no judgements or subjective observations. I have read many, many stories on this very fine website and for the most part have enjoyed them all for one reason or another. There are some contributors who display the creative talent in relating their erotic thoughts, ideas, and desires in a manner that all can relate too….call it targeting the “human condition”. There are also those contributors who through the use of a group of 50 or 60 words and/or phrases simply describe in the most basic way raw, animal lust. Both have their places within the realm of the written word.

I would like to hear opinions and thoughts from others and, perhaps, a discussion of my base level question…that is: “Is there a difference between smut and erotica?”

A good recommended read is: The Hot Spots edited by J.H. Blair, published by Berkley Books in NYC.

Thanks in advance for your thoughtful inputs.

Pushkin

 

[bubbley1]

I believe that smut is one form of erotica, as there are many. There is the literary writing that is gracious yet scintillating, there is photography, still as well as moving pictures, etc. When does it become smut versus some other more "refined" form of erotica? For me it is when it appeals to the basic animal instincts versus the emotions that go with sexual bonding. There is something deeply emotional and spiritual that can occur during sex, but not usually smutty sex, that fills a basic need and can be, well, fun and meaningless both at the same time. It makes me think of a trio, alot of fun to play with, but deeply emotionally fulfilling, just fulfilling

Bubbley1

 

[sensualpilgrim]

I believe that smut is one form of erotica, as there are many. There is the literary writing that is gracious yet scintillating, there is photography, still as well as moving pictures, etc. When does it become smut versus some other more "refined" form of erotica? For me it is when it appeals to the basic animal instincts versus the emotions that go with sexual bonding. There is something deeply emotional and spiritual that can occur during sex, but not usually smutty sex, that fills a basic need and can be, well, fun and meaningless both at the same time. It makes me think of a trio, alot of fun to play with, but deeply emotionally fulfilling, just fulfilling

Bubbley1

No difference. Sex is sex. That's same. What's different is the attitude and purpose of the authors. That count more than contents.

Pilgrim

 

[fantac64]

I've heard it said that erotica is smut, (or porn) with a plot. I read very little true porn. I want a story to tie it to, a reason for the sex if you will. Good erotica is so much more than smut and some of the coolest writers of erotica or members of this site. I thank them for hours of pleasure.

 

[midas2001]

hmmmmmmm..........

Hello fantac64,

I guess for me (my opinion only) there is a difference between 'smut' and 'erotica'. I think the difference between the two is basically that smut as such would be made up of the gratuitous use of certain words or phrases that have no apparent link to any story line or plot!

Erotica on the other hand is more sensual and the way it's written really brings the reader into the story.

Midas2001

 

[Ogre67]

Im going to have to agree 100% with Bubbley1. There is a difference for sure, how much of a difference is based on the person.

Ogre

 

[TigerClaw]

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[Sienna]

EROTICA:

A story or an account of a sexual fantasy or experience, made to have a romantic theme describing the love relationships between its characters in detail.

SMUT :

Pornographic literature writen to entertain and excite its reader, making use of descriptive words considered subversive. There needs to be no plot nor scenario.

Yours.....

Sie.xxxx

 

[LoveAdvocate]

I think without a doubt it is in the eye of the beholder. If you asked my grandmother(rest her soul) anything that pertained to sex or the mention of it was smut, if you asked my mother, anything that described sex in detail would be smut and if you ask me, well, lets just say there's not much that would be considered smut in my book <smiles>.