What's Happening?
A recent discussion in The Atlantic highlights a trend in literary fiction where explicit depictions of straight sex are becoming less common. The article, written by Lily Meyer, explores how many contemporary realist novels are avoiding detailed portrayals
of intimacy between men and women. This shift is contrasted with the work of queer novelists, who continue to explore both the humorous and profound aspects of sex. Meyer references Jan Saenz's upcoming book, '200 Monas,' which embraces a more explicit narrative. The story follows Arvy Keening, a college senior, who inherits an experimental drug that induces uncontrollable orgasms. The novel uses this premise to explore themes of grief, intimacy, and character development, highlighting how sex scenes can reveal deeper character insights.
Why It's Important?
The trend of avoiding explicit content in literary fiction raises questions about the role of intimacy in character development and storytelling. By shying away from detailed depictions of sex, authors may miss opportunities to explore complex character dynamics and emotional depth. This shift could reflect broader cultural attitudes towards privacy and propriety in literature. However, it also risks limiting the narrative tools available to writers. The discussion underscores the importance of diverse storytelling approaches in literature, where both explicit and subtle portrayals of intimacy can coexist to enrich the reader's experience.
What's Next?
As the literary community continues to evolve, it will be important to observe how authors balance the demand for both explicit and nuanced storytelling. Publishers and readers may influence this trend, depending on their reception of works like '200 Monas' that challenge current norms. Additionally, discussions around the role of intimacy in literature could lead to a reevaluation of what constitutes meaningful character development. Authors may experiment with different narrative techniques to address these themes, potentially leading to a more varied literary landscape.
Beyond the Headlines
The shift away from explicit content in literary fiction may also reflect broader societal changes in how intimacy and privacy are perceived. As digital media continues to influence cultural norms, the literary world might be responding to a growing preference for discretion in personal matters. This could lead to a reevaluation of how intimacy is portrayed across different media, influencing not just literature but also film, television, and other forms of storytelling.
