I can whisper the word sex and get more attention than if I shouted fire. Sex is a buzz word that gets our brains going in different directions from political, moral and social, sex has an often-polarizing effect on people. We talk about sexual identity, sexual preferences, sexuality and how much sex is in the media. Sex sells everything from chewing gum to airplanes, blue jeans to mink coats, and rock stars to politicians.

What is it about sex that makes us stop and pay attention to commercials, music or stories? Why does some sex appeal and some repel? We can hear about an actor’s sexual misdeed and form an opinion for or against them. Does this stop us from watching the movies or shows they are in? How about a politician? Do their sexual misdeeds cause us to not trust them? Where do we draw the line?

As a writer, sex plays a part in my stories. It can be a big part of a romantic plot, but it can also be used in a more sinister story. Sex can be used to manipulate another person, or it can be used against a character in the form of blackmail or assault. Whether real life of fiction, sex can be as innocent as the first desire or as dark as a serial killer’s morbid fantasies.

What is it about sex that gives it such power? How can something so beautiful in a loving situation be horrific in the wrong one?