Writers Practicing Safer Sex in Fiction

I have just reread Erica Jong’s 1973 novel FEAR OF FLYING. The novel, a seminal book for women’s feelings about sex written by a woman, does not cover one concern that the anxiety-ridden protagonist, Isadora Wing, did not worry about at that time – AIDS.

And while the need for safer sex has been part of the public conscious for many years now, we writers have a responsibility to keep the need in front of new and old generations by including references in our fiction whether for print or screen.

Here’s a perfect example of a missed opportunity to remind teens of the need for safer sex without resorting to preaching:

The CW teen series ALL AMERICAN (yes, I just binged the entire first season on Netflix) has Los Angeles teens engaging in sex. I didn’t see or hear one reference for the need to use condoms to protect against STDs, yet STDs have been skyrocketing in Los Angeles County.

What can we as writers do to encourage safer sex behavior?

Include safer sex references in our writing – it’s as simple as that. And the best part is that, instead of being awkward, well-written references can add to character portrayal.

Here’s an example for a lighthearted novel or film:

Elena peered at the bulge in Jason’s tight jeans. “If your friend is planning to come out and play, I hope it brought along its own umbrella. Otherwise our play date will have to be postponed.”

Yes, this is corny, although it does demonstrate that there are ways of not saying the word “condom” (if you would prefer not to use the word) and still get the point across of practicing safer sex.

So, writers, just as you hopefully practice safer sex in real life, also practice safer sex in your fiction!