I am not yours, not lost in you,
Not lost, although I long to be
Lost as a candle lit at noon,
Lost as a snowflake in the sea.
You love me, and I find you still
A spirit beautiful and bright,
Yet I am I, who long to be
Lost as a light is lost in light.
Oh plunge me deep in love — put out
My senses, leave me deaf and blind,
Swept by the tempest of your love,
A taper in a rushing wind.
Sara Teasdale, I Am Not Yours (1884-1933)
Part of the intrigue of a romance is the sensual tension between the hero and heroine. Two individuals struggling to merge into one couple, yet retain singularity. We want them to be happy with each other, but if they find that meeting of minds and hearts too soon, our story is over.
Our couple needs to be at odds with one another not only in the world of the external plot, but in their relationship journey. They are on a life altering path, whether they know it or not, they are not likely at the same stage of readiness for this venture, and they will be risking their hearts, and perhaps even their lives. In fantasy and paranormal this merging can go even deeper, to an actual permanent psychic and/or physical melding of minds or souls or even lifeforce.
Writing Prompt: Write sensual scene or love scene where hero and heroine are not at the same point in their romantic journey and where the scene brings them closer, yet will leave them pulling apart in greater conflict. Remember, love scenes are more than the physical act. Give the reader their thoughts and emotions. Evoke mood, use the senses.
When writing a conflicted love scene, do you find it easier to be in the hero’s or heroine’s viewpoint?
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