lgbtq+ WRITING

I’ve just finished reading Tom Crewe’s The New Life, which tells the story of two men working together on a study on civil rights for gay people.

Crewe’s work looks powerfully at queer desires and the profound struggles faced by individuals during a time when such feelings were not only misunderstood but often dangerously suppressed.

Crewe masterfully sets the stage in an era where the mere expression of same-sex love could lead to severe repercussions, weaving the lives of his characters around the historical context of the real 1897 book “Sexual Inversion” by Havelock Ellis and John Addington Symonds.

Through the lens of John Addington and Henry Ellis, the novel delves into themes of lust, the quest for truth, and the courage to live openly despite societal condemnation. This narrative is especially poignant for LGBTQ+ readers, reflecting on the enduring fight for recognition and the right to love freely.

The emotional and physical intricacies of the characters’ experiences are rendered with exquisite sensitivity, bringing to life their internal dilemmas and the societal pressures that shape their actions. Crewe’s ability to blend historical accuracy with deeply personal stories offers a compelling insight into the challenges of navigating one’s sexuality in a repressive environment.

The novel’s focus on the moral conflicts between private courage and public advocacy is nicely done. The book also avoids shying away from examining gender, sexuality, and power. Crewe’s portrayal of the solidarity and tension between the fight for sexual freedom and the women’s movement highlights the complexity of social struggles, reminding readers of the importance of understanding within and across communities.

The novel’s contemporary style, coupled with its historical setting, serves as a bridge connecting past and present struggles. This connection between past and present imbues the novel with a sense of urgency and relevance, offering not only a window into the struggles of the past but also a mirror reflecting ongoing issues in the LGBTQ+ community.

I enjoyed it. It’s a notable addition to LGBTQ+ literature but more generally a strong book on anything covering the human condition and what it means to conform.