Is queer temporality inherently existential, defined by moments of rupture and renewal? There are many ways to answer this question. One way is to consider the historical context of queer identities and how they have been shaped by social norms and expectations. Another approach is to look at the experiences of individuals who identify as queer and explore their relationship to time and its passage.
One can examine the intersection between queerness and various forms of trauma, which often involve profound disruptions in temporal experience. In this essay, I will focus primarily on the first two approaches.
Historically, queer identities have been subject to oppression and persecution, particularly in Western societies where homosexuality was criminalized until relatively recently. This history has had a lasting impact on the way that queer people perceive themselves and their place in society.
Gay men during the early 20th century faced tremendous pressure to conform to heteronormative standards and deny their sexual orientation in order to avoid arrest or discrimination. As a result, many men lived double lives, hiding their true selves from family, friends, and even lovers. This secrecy created a sense of fragmentation and instability within the self, with many feeling disconnected from their own bodies and desires.
Queer individuals also tend to see time differently than non-queer people. They may feel more aware of the passing of time because they have experienced a greater degree of change and upheaval in their personal lives. This awareness can be positive or negative depending on the individual's circumstances. On the one hand, it can lead to a heightened appreciation for each moment and a sense of urgency about living life fully. On the other hand, it can create anxiety and uncertainty about what comes next. Queer people often feel a deep connection to past events, such as the Stonewall Riots or the AIDS epidemic, and may view them as formative experiences that shaped their identity.
Not all queer people experience time in this way. Some may find comfort in routine and stability, while others may embrace a more spontaneous approach to life. The key is understanding how time operates on a personal level and making choices that reflect one's values and preferences. By examining these questions, we can begin to understand the unique temporal experiences of queer individuals and how they shape our collective consciousness.
Is queer temporality inherently existential, defined by moments of rupture and renewal?
Yes, queer temporality is an essential aspect of identity that can be characterized as constantly changing and shifting due to experiences of marginalization and oppression. Queer people often experience "ruptures" or breaks in time when they are forced to navigate different social norms and expectations, while also feeling a sense of renewal or reinvention when embracing their unique identities. This can create a disjointed and nonlinear experience of time that challenges traditional concepts of linear progression.