Gay topics have been central to most national literary traditions, whether in fiction, memoir, drama, or verse. Yet “crossover” success stories are remarkably few, as are works of literature about gay subjects, written by heterosexual authors. Furthermore, openly gay-themed books tend to get passed over in favor of works more evidently addressing “universal” or “mainstream” concerns. No longer: Here's the book that cues you in to the essential titles in the gay and lesbian literary canon.This book contains 50 succinct essays by critics, public figures, and authors illuminating 50 works that everybody should read. Canning tackles important themes, issues of regional and cultural diversity, political aspects, and analyses of that old chestnut: what makes a work of literature gay or lesbian? Rearrange your shelves, book-club lists, and expectations. Whether your preference is for Ginsberg or Woolf or Melville, this is one volume no bookworm should miss out on. Paperback, 288 Pages, Published 2009 |
