One characteristic is their in - depth exploration of identity. In these novels, gay characters often grapple with their sexual identity in the context of society. For example, in some novels, characters may face discrimination or have to hide their true selves, which reflects real - world experiences.
'A Visit from the Goon Squad' by Jennifer Egan also touches on gay themes among its complex web of stories. It's a novel that plays with form and narrative, and within its pages, it delves into the lives and relationships of various characters, including those with same - sex attractions. The Pulitzer win shows its overall literary merit in handling diverse themes.
Great gay themed novels often have complex characters. For example, they might show the internal struggle of a gay character in a heteronormative society, like in 'Maurice' by E. M. Forster. The characters are not just defined by their sexual orientation but have multi - faceted personalities.
Gay themed historical novels frequently have themes of love and longing that are colored by the historical context. The love between the characters may be forbidden or difficult to express due to the laws and social mores of the time. For instance, in novels set during the Middle Ages, gay relationships were severely punished. So the characters have to be very cautious. They also tend to incorporate real historical events and figures in a way that is relevant to the gay experience. This can help to ground the story in history and make it more believable. And the language used in these novels can be quite evocative of the historical period, which adds to the overall atmosphere and authenticity of the story.
One characteristic is that they often have well - developed characters. Just like in 'Call Me by Your Name', the two main characters are complex and multi - faceted. Their emotions and growth throughout the story are clearly portrayed.
One characteristic is that they often use the horror genre to explore the unique fears and anxieties faced by the gay community. For example, they might explore themes of acceptance and rejection in a more extreme, horror - based way.
Many Pulitzer novels tend to deal with important social issues. For example, they might explore race relations like 'To Kill a Mockingbird' did.
Good gay themed sailing novels usually have a strong sense of place. The sailing locations, whether it's a bustling port or a desolate ocean expanse, become an important part of the story. The cultural and social aspects of the places visited during the sailing journey can also influence the gay characters' experiences and relationships, adding depth and authenticity to the narrative.
The exploration of relationships is key. It could be about the relationship between two male characters, whether it's romantic love, friendship or family - like bonds. In some works, it shows how they navigate through society's expectations and prejudices together.
Gay - themed adult fiction in stores, if available, often contains stories that explore adult relationships within the gay community. These may involve themes of love, lust, and sexual encounters, but presented in a fictional context. However, different stores may have different criteria for selecting such works, depending on their target market and the legal environment they operate in.
They often explore themes of identity. In a British context, this can involve dealing with the social norms and expectations that have been present over time. For instance, in older stories, there might be a struggle against the more conservative views of society.