A Subject Of “advice” (Press, 14 July 1962)

On 14 July 1962, a controversy emerged surrounding the novel "A Way of Love" by New Zealand author James Courage, following an interdepartmental committee's advice that implied threats of prosecution for bookstores and libraries that continued to stock the book. As a result, many booksellers and libraries chose to withdraw it from their shelves. The article also includes a reprint of a review from March 28, 1959, which discusses the novel in detail. James Courage is recognised as a skilled expatriate New Zealand writer, known for his sensitive exploration of personal relationships within the context of New Zealand life from decades earlier. However, "A Way of Love" marks a departure from his previous works, as it presents a thorough and sympathetic study of a homosexual relationship. This shift poses a surprise for many of Courage's readers, given that his earlier novels only hinted at themes of homosexuality. The review notes that Courage's approach is serious and dignified, aiming to foster public understanding of the challenges faced by homosexual individuals who are also principled and conscientious. Despite this, the review expresses reservations about the appropriateness of the subject matter being addressed in this way. Its structure is critiqued as resembling an argument laid out in novel form, leading to an overall impression of tedium, attributed to the emotional emptiness and frustrations of the characters portrayed. The story centres on a middle-aged architect who has reconciled his homosexual identity and created a lifestyle compatible with it while living in London. The architect's relationships consist primarily of other men, with the narrative touching upon the loneliness and promiscuity experienced by many in the homosexual community in that era. One couple featured in the story appears to have found relative happiness, though such outcomes are portrayed as infrequent. The architect meets a young man at a concert, sensing a shared homosexual identity. He engages with the young man carefully, allowing him the agency to make a choice. However, the young man struggles to accept his own identity and ultimately leaves the architect, resulting in a poignant conclusion to the narrative. The review notes that Courage's sober and candid account of the characters may resonate emotionally even with the most prejudiced readers. Additionally, Courage lightly addresses the criminal aspects associated with homosexual life in urban settings but refrains from delving deeply into these themes. His focus remains on the honest struggle of individuals seeking to lead a life that, as much as possible, aligns with societal norms. Overall, "A Way of Love" is positioned as a significant but contentious work that promises to expand understanding and empathy toward the complexities of homosexual existence.

The text on this page is created, in the most part, using Generative AI and so may contain errors or omissions. It is supplied to you without guarantee or warranty of correctness. If you find an error or would like to make a content suggestion please get in contact

The text on this page is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial-ShareAlike 3.0 New Zealand