Cheri, an adult magazine published in France from the late 1960s to the mid-20000s, featured sensual poetry and short erotic prose throughout its run. This type of writing was unique for its time, combining literary artistry with explicit sexuality in ways that had rarely been seen before. The inclusion of this type of content helped Cheri stand out from competitors like Playboy and Penthouse, which focused more heavily on photography and less on text.
The editors of Cheri sought to create a publication that would appeal to both men and women, and they believed that including sensual literature would help them achieve this goal. They saw it as a way to celebrate female desire and empowerment while also catering to male fantasies. This approach was reflected in the magazine's tagline: "For Men Who Love Women."
Sensual poems and stories were often written by well-known French authors such as Annie Ernaux, Jeanne Moreau, and Marguerite Duras. These writers brought their own unique styles and perspectives to their work, creating pieces that were both beautiful and provocative. Some of the most famous examples include "Le Petit Mort," a story about a woman who explores her sexuality with two lovers, and "La Bonne Fille Mal élevée," a poem that describes the physical and emotional intimacy between two people.
In addition to showcasing the work of established writers, Cheri also published new voices in the genre. Many of these emerging authors were women, reflecting the magazine's commitment to promoting gender equality. This included writers like Catherine Millet, who penned "Les Lèvres Rouges" (Red Lips), a story about a young woman's journey into self-discovery through sex.
The inclusion of sensual poetry and prose helped make Cheri one of the most influential magazines of its time. It inspired imitators around the world and influenced later erotic publications like On Our Backs, which focused on lesbian writing, and Bad Attitude, which featured queer perspectives. Today, many authors continue to explore the intersection of literary artistry and explicit sexuality, drawing inspiration from the groundbreaking work published in Cheri.