Queer representation in literature has been around since ancient times, but it wasn't until recently that writers started to openly include LGBTQ+ stories and characters into their work. This changed the way people saw literature and challenged traditional literary hierarchies. It also opened up new possibilities for readers who identified with queer characters and themes.
This progress was met with resistance from conservative groups who felt that queer representation went against their values and beliefs. Despite these hurdles, the struggle for queer representation continues today, and there are many ways that authors can embed queerness into their writing without being overt about it. In the future, the literary canon may look very different as more and more authors incorporate queerness into their work.
One way to challenge traditional literary hierarchies is through subversion. Authors like James Baldwin and Audre Lorde used subversive techniques to challenge social norms in their works.
Baldwin's "Go Tell It On The Mountain" features a gay character named John Grimes, which was revolutionary at the time because of its depiction of same-sex relationships in a religious setting. Lorde's "Zami: A New Spelling Of My Name" explores her own experiences as a black lesbian woman, and how she navigated society while living in an oppressive system. Both authors broke down barriers by writing about topics that were considered taboo or controversial at the time.
Another way to promote queer representation in literature is through coded language. Coded language involves using words or phrases that have multiple meanings or interpretations.
Toni Morrison's "Beloved" uses coded language when Sethe calls Paul D "schoolteacher." This could be interpreted as referring to his profession, but it also suggests that he has taught her something intimate. Similarly, Nella Larsen's "Passing" uses coded language when Irene passes as white to escape racism. These types of codes allow authors to explore sensitive topics without directly addressing them.
Another method for promoting queer representation is through symbolism. Symbolism allows authors to represent ideas or concepts without directly stating them. In Jeanette Winterson's "Oranges Are Not The Only Fruit," the protagonist's love interest is represented by an orange tree. This metaphor represents the complexity and depth of their relationship beyond just physical attraction. Other authors like Willa Cather use symbols such as rainbows to represent queerness, which has become a common trope in LGBTQ+ literature.
The struggle for queer representation in literature continues today, even though progress has been made. Authors can challenge traditional hierarchies through subversion, coded language, and symbolism. As more and more authors incorporate queer themes into their work, the literary canon may look very different in the future. It will be interesting to see how this shift affects literature and society at large.