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Admire Quote by Toni Morrison

“Sex is difficult to write about because it's just not sexy enough. The only way to write about it is not to write much. Let the reader bring his own sexuality into the text. A writer I usually admire has written about sex in the most off-putting way. There is just too much information.” quote by Toni Morrison
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“Sex is difficult to write about because it's just not sexy enough. The only way to write about it is not to write much. Let the reader bring his own sexuality into the text. A writer I usually admire has written about sex in the most off-putting way. There is just too much information.”

Toni Morrison

About This Quote

Source Interview: Author discussion, date unknown

Writing about sex is challenging because explicitness can diminish intrigue; restraint invites readers to project their own sensuality.

In simple terms: Less is more in erotic writing.

Key Takeaway

Use subtlety to engage readers' imagination.

Themes

intimacy creativity restraint

Mood

thoughtful introspective

Type

literary advice

When to use this quote

  • novel writing
  • short stories
  • poetry

Key Concepts

literary technique reader participation

Questions to Reflect On

  • How can you suggest intimacy without describing it?
  • What balance of detail feels authentic?
A Different Perspective

Overly explicit detail can alienate readers.

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