The Art of Love Letter Writing

By Liz Campanille

Let’s face it, dear readers: Electronic communication has really spoiled the art ofletter writing. In the blink of an eye, you can text or e-mail those three little words – and we’re even abbreviating that these days. As if “I love you” took too long, now you can just substitute “luv u.” Sheesh!
Letter writing in general has gone the way of the dodo, not to mention erotic love letters. I remember being fifteen years old, waiting by the mailbox to see if my long-distance boyfriend had sent his undying love my way via the US Postal Service. There was something a touch romantic in that yearning, and a definite charm to putting those feelings into words versus calling or – gasp! – texting.
Love letters have probably existed since people were able to write. The first official ones were on record circa the 12th century, so we’re talking ancient art here. The whole purpose of love letters was, of course, the profession of undying love, passion, and intense feelings for one’s lover. So what makes a good erotic love letter?
Let’s start with the basics: with a good quality paper and pen. If you’re reaching for a Papermate and notebook paper – honey, try again. Run with the big dogs and get some quality stationery, and anything other than a ballpoint. Good paper is sensual, and sends a strong message – so check to see how it feels in your hands.
Get started with an endearing or seductive greeting. Try “Dearest” or “Hottest” [insert name here] or, if you have one, use a special nickname to address your sweetie. Just make it something out of the ordinary in order to set the tone for your letter. A special salutation will clue your lover in that something delicious is on the way.
The purpose of the erotic love letter is to entice and seduce with your words, so get creative. Experts say the brain is the largest sex organ; the erotic love letter blazes a trail through that territory and sets the stage for later. Think of your letter as an intricate, written web you’re weaving around your lover. To be successful, be sure to speak from your heart or whatever other parts of your anatomy are inspired at the time.
Think sensual, as in activating all the senses. Use your words to transport your lover to the moments leading up to and during those rollicking moments. What does that all sound, feel, and look like? Get really descriptive and imaginative, letting your words paint pictures and act as mental foreplay.
Describe where you are and exactly what you plan on doing in intimate detail. This is a great place to introduce some details: What does the room look like? What colors do you see? What textures can you feel?
It’s a nice touch to end your letter with a suggestion of what’s to follow after your letter has been read, but that’s only one of many ways. Be sure to end your letter with the same drama in which you started, and sign off using your first initial instead of your signature. If you’re feeling especially ambitious, spray your letter with an essential oil or a dash of your favorite cologne and pop it into the mail box