[history_lover]

As a writer, I wonder why authors make some of the choices they do: In this case Martin has included unnecessarily graphic depictions of sexual situations, limiting the appeal of this book (and, I presume, its successors) to a narrower audience.

I don't think they are unnecessary - I think they are essential to understanding some of the characters, as well as the world they live in. Prudish people may not like to accept it but sexuality is a huge part of cultural, society, and humanity.