Erotic magazines are publications that contain fiction and nonfiction material related to sex, romance, sensuality, intimacy, and relationships. They include written work such as poems, short stories, novellas, and essays, but also photographs and illustrations depicting various forms of erotic activity. In addition, they cover topics like BDSM, fetishes, kinks, polyamory, group sex, threesomes, masturbation, pornography, swinging, and more. These magazines have long been available for purchase in print form at newsstands and bookstores, but recently they've become increasingly popular online.
Many people view erotica as an art form and appreciate its ability to convey intense feelings of lust, arousal, passion, and desire. The most common types of erotic literature include fantasy, contemporary, historical, science fiction, horror, paranormal, literary, and LGBTQ+ works. However, it is possible to find almost any genre of writing transformed into a sexualized story or scene. For example, the writer John Updike reimagined the banal concept of golf balls as vibrating organs capable of stimulating female genitalia. In his short story "Golf Ball," the protagonist discovers that when she holds one between her legs while playing a round of golf, it causes her to orgasm.
To promote their publications, some magazines host contests where readers submit original erotic fiction or poetry. This helps foster creativity among writers, and encourages them to explore different styles and genres. Other promotional strategies involve social media, press releases, advertisements, events, and endorsements from celebrities or influencers. Some publishers also offer subscriptions and memberships that provide exclusive content and discounted prices.
Erotic magazines can be controversial due to their explicit subject matter. They are often criticized for objectifying women and portraying them as sexual objects rather than complex individuals. Critics say these magazines glamorize dangerous behaviors like cheating, infidelity, violence against women, non-consensual sex, and even rape. Others argue they desensitize audiences to real-world dangers such as STDs, unwanted pregnancy, and domestic abuse. Despite these concerns, many people enjoy reading them and value their ability to provoke thoughtful discussions about relationships and intimacy.