Well, it depends. In certain literary circles and among some audiences, erotic short stories have a following. They can be a form of self - expression for authors exploring sensuality. But in more conservative literary environments or for those who prefer more 'pure' forms of literature, they may not be as popular. For example, in some academic settings, they are not often studied as they are considered too risqué.
Yes, they are quite popular. Many readers are attracted to the intense emotions and often-taboo themes explored in them. These stories can offer a different kind of literary experience, delving into human sexuality and passion in a way that more mainstream literature might not. However, they also face a lot of criticism due to their explicit nature in some cases.
To some extent, they are. Erotic short stories appeal to those who are interested in exploring the boundaries of human relationships and desires. They can be found in various genres, from historical to contemporary settings. Some people enjoy them because they can provide a form of escapism and a way to explore their own fantasies in a fictional context. However, their popularity is not as widespread as some other mainstream literary genres like mystery or romance.