4.03
"Maurice" by E.M. Forster is a groundbreaking novel that explores themes of sexuality, identity, and societal expectations in early 20th century England. The story follows Maurice Hall, a young man who, after a series of intimate encounters with his schoolmate Clive Durham, realizes that he is homosexual. However, in a time when homosexuality is considered a criminal offense, Maurice must keep his true self hidden from society. Forster's lyrical prose and keen insight into the human condition make "Maurice" a compelling read. The novel delves into the emotional turmoil that Maurice experiences as he grapples with his sexuality, and the societal pressures that force him to conform to heteronormative expectations. Forster also explores the class dynamics that exist between Maurice and Clive, and how these differences impact their relationship. One of the most striking aspects of "Maurice" is its unapologetic portrayal of homosexuality. Forster wrote the novel in 1913, but it was not published until 1971, a year after his death. This was due in part to the taboo nature of the subject matter, but Forster was also concerned about the potential backlash that the novel might receive. However, his decision to publish the novel posthumously allowed him to explore the complexities of homosexuality in a way that was ahead of its time. "Maurice" is a powerful exploration of what it means to be true to oneself, even in the face of societal pressure and discrimination. It is a novel that challenges conventional norms and invites readers to consider the complexities of human desire and identity. Forster's masterful storytelling and thought-provoking themes make "Maurice" a must-read for anyone interested in exploring the intersection of sexuality, identity, and societal expectations...
Patricia Highsmith
The Price of Salt
This novel, also known as 'Carol', tells the story of a love affair between two women in 1950s America, a time when such relationships were taboo. The novel explores themes of forbidden love, societal expectations, and the struggle for self-acceptance, much like 'Maurice'.
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A Single Man
Like 'Maurice', 'A Single Man' explores themes of homosexuality and societal expectations through the story of a gay man in mid-20th century America. The novel provides a deep and introspective look into the life of a protagonist who is struggling to find his place in a world that does not accept him.
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Brokeback Mountain
This short story, later adapted into a feature film, tells the story of two cowboys who fall in love in the 1960s American West. Like 'Maurice', the story explores themes of forbidden love, societal expectations, and the struggle for self-acceptance.
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The Line of Beauty
Set in 1980s England, this novel tells the story of a young gay man who becomes involved with a wealthy and influential family. The novel explores themes of sexuality, class, and politics, and provides a deep and introspective look into the life of a protagonist who is struggling to find his place in a world that does not accept him.
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The City and the Pillar
This novel tells the story of a young man who comes to terms with his homosexuality in mid-20th century America. The novel explores themes of forbidden love, societal expectations, and the struggle for self-acceptance, much like 'Maurice'.
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Giovanni's Room
Set in 1950s Paris, this novel tells the story of an American man who falls in love with an Italian bartender. The novel explores themes of sexuality, identity, and self-acceptance, and provides a deep and introspective look into the life of a protagonist who is struggling to find his place in a world that does not accept him.
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Oranges Are Not the Only Fruit
This novel tells the story of a young girl who grows up in a strict religious household and discovers her own sexuality. The novel explores themes of sexuality, identity, and self-acceptance, and provides a deep and introspective look into the life of a protagonist who is struggling to find her place in a world that does not accept her.
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The Swimming-Pool Library
Set in 1980s England, this novel tells the story of a young gay man who becomes involved with an older man and discovers his own sexuality. The novel explores themes of sexuality, class, and politics, and provides a deep and introspective look into the life of a protagonist who is struggling to find his place in a world that does not accept him.
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Fingersmith
Set in Victorian England, this novel tells the story of a young woman who is swept up in a world of crime and deception. The novel explores themes of sexuality, identity, and self-acceptance, and provides a deep and introspective look into the life of a protagonist who is struggling to find her place in a world that does not accept her.
Learn MoreArmistead Maupin
Tales of the City
Set in 1970s San Francisco, this novel tells the story of a group of friends who are exploring their sexuality and finding their place in the world. The novel explores themes of sexuality, identity, and self-acceptance, and provides a deep and introspective look into the life of a protagonist who is struggling to find his place in a world that does not accept him.
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