Homosexual’s New York (Press, 7 May 1988)

The review published on 7 May 1988 discusses Edmund White's novel "The Beautiful Room is Empty," a sequel to his earlier work "A Boy’s Own Story." Sharon Hunter highlights White's significance as a contemporary writer focusing on homosexuality in the Western world. The novel’s narrative spans the late 1950s to 1969, tracing the evolution of the unnamed narrator as he navigates his identity and desires against the backdrop of societal attitudes towards homosexuality. Initially set in the conservative Midwest, the narrator eventually relocates to New York City, where he confronts his conflicting feelings regarding his sexual orientation. He grapples with an "impossible desire to love a man but not be a homosexual," embodying the struggle faced by many in a society that often labeled them as "sick" or "queer.” The story reflects the challenges of acceptance and the internalised shame that many homosexuals experienced during this time. The narrative takes readers through the sordid experiences in New York’s public spaces, depicting the secretive and often dangerous cruising culture. White’s vivid and sometimes lyrical descriptions transform gritty encounters into a form of art, and the protagonist’s compulsive behaviour raises questions about desire and identity. Hunter notes that while the narrator witnesses his peers attempting to conform to societal expectations by pursuing relationships with women, he remains in pursuit of his own truth. The character’s journey is marked by an awareness of belonging and alienation, ultimately culminating in a friendship with a well-adjusted lesbian named Maria. She plays a crucial role in helping him reconcile his identity, showcasing a shift from self-loathing to acceptance around the time of the Stonewall riots in 1969. "The Beautiful Room is Empty" is portrayed as a groundbreaking work that challenges societal norms and speaks to the urgency of understanding contemporary issues, particularly in light of the AIDs crisis. Hunter describes the novel as a compelling blend of literary prowess and personal exploration, making it essential reading for a society grappling with changing attitudes towards homosexuality.

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