As a scholar who studies gender and sexuality, I have been intrigued by the concept of queer time for some time now. Queer time refers to the idea that traditional chronology may not be applicable to the lives of people whose identities are shaped by non-binary understandings of gender and/or sexuality. Instead of a linear progression from childhood to adolescence to adulthood to old age, queer time can involve jumps between these categories or a rejection of them altogether.
Some individuals might identify as both male and female simultaneously or shift their identity throughout their life. In terms of romantic and sexual partnerships, some may prefer fluid arrangements where they experiment with different genders or remain monogamous yet open to other options. These alternative approaches to time disrupt conventional narratives of progress, aging, and life trajectory. To explain how this happens, let's explore three areas in which queer temporality has implications.
In terms of progress, we tend to assume that there is a path from infancy through maturity towards adulthood, followed by a slow decline into old age.
Queer time challenges this view.
Someone who transitions later in life may feel like they are going backwards in age, while those who choose not to transition may not follow a clear path at all.
Individuals who reject binary gender roles and expectations may find themselves moving between stages without clear markers along the way. As such, traditional milestones like graduation, marriage, parenthood, and retirement may become less relevant or meaningful for many queer people. This creates tension when trying to fit into systems designed around age-based standards.
Aging also becomes complicated within the context of queer time. The idea of growing older typically involves a gradual loss of physical vitality and youthfulness, but what does that mean if you don't conform to societal norms about gender presentation? How do you navigate changes in your body and appearance if you identify as neither male nor female? And what happens when you reach an age considered "old" according to cultural conventions but still feel young inside? These questions highlight the complexity of ageism and its intersection with queerness.
Life trajectories can be disrupted by queer temporality too. Traditionally, we have assumed that certain events happen at particular moments in our lives - getting married, having children, establishing a career - but these assumptions no longer apply when sexual identity isn't fixed. Someone who identifies as nonbinary might choose to raise children in a polyamorous relationship instead of a nuclear family structure. Another person may prioritize their artistic pursuits over traditional job opportunities.
Queer time calls into question our understanding of how we should live our lives and opens up new possibilities for exploration and growth beyond conventional narratives.
In what ways does queer temporality disrupt conventional narratives of progress, aging, and life trajectory?
Queer temporality refers to the unique temporal experiences of non-heterosexual individuals who challenge societal norms regarding age, sexuality, and identity. Research has shown that queer individuals often experience time differently due to their marginalized status within society. This can lead to feelings of isolation, alienation, and anxiety as they navigate a world that is not designed for them.