Bitter-sweet Gaiety (Press, 1 July 1989)

"Sucking Sherbet Lemons," a novel by Michael Carson published by Black Swan in 1989, explores the life of Benson, a homosexual Catholic boy navigating the complexities of his identity. The narrative is designed to resonate not just with homosexuals and Catholics but with anyone who embraces a free spirit and enjoys diverse literature. Benson is portrayed as a chubby schoolboy burdened by the expectations of his faith, weekly engaging in the rituals of confession and contrition to suppress his desires. In a bid to escape the pressures of school, particularly a challenging maths class led by Brother Wood, he enters a religious order. However, the close-knit environment, populated by other boys who share his same-sex attractions, complicates his quest for spiritual reflection and ultimately leads him to leave the order. The turning point in Benson’s journey comes when he accepts his sexuality and begins to forge friendships with like-minded individuals. Embracing his identity allows him to identify as a "happy homo," indicating a shift towards self-acceptance and joy in his life. Carson, drawing from his own experiences as a former novice in a religious order, effectively tackles the intertwined themes of Catholicism and homosexuality. The book is described as humorous and witty, though it carries a bittersweet undertone, hinted at through its title, which evokes the contrast between sweet and sour experiences. Overall, "Sucking Sherbet Lemons" presents an engaging and relatable tale about the struggles of self-discovery and acceptance within the context of faith and sexuality.

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