Bawer brings to the volatile public discussion of homosexuality the
same moral reasoning and civilized demeanor evident in his cultural
criticism (The Aspect of Eternity, p. 632). This passionate,
persuasive book should be the starting point for all future debate.
What separates Bawer's honest and accessible argument from other
polemics on homosexuality - aside from its moral perspective - is
its audience. Bawer treats the opposition with respect while never
compromising his goal: the triumph of "reason over irrationality,
acceptance over estrangement [and] love over loathing." He premises
his work on the reasonable assumption that there's a vast disparity
between the gay subculture and the reality of most gay life in
America. The public debate has been shaped by highly vocal denizens
of the urban gay ghettos, a group that has portrayed itself as
sex-obsessed, irresponsible, and politically beyond the pale.
Meanwhile, the conservative opposition too often frames its
position in response to the subcultural stereotypes. That's no
excuse, though, for right-wing homophobia and its buzzwords
("choice," "recruit," "advocate," "abnormal," "lifestyle," etc.),
each of which Bawer eloquently addresses. Bawer's defense of the
"silent majority" of gays is based in his own Christian faith and
conservative values. He brilliantly exposes the social policy of
denying domestic partnership rights as compilcit with the sexually
permissive underground of bathhouses and porno theaters. Moreover,
not only does he address Bible-based anti-gay attitudes, but he
defuses the anti-family posturing of both the gay radicals and
their right-wing counterparts. At his best, Bawer depoliticizes a
subject overcharged with rhetoric, reminding us that there's really
no reason for shock value. To call Bawer's subtle narrative
"centrist" misses its truly post-ideological significance. Bawer
artfully weaves autobiography into his eloquent defense of the
common sense that exists somewhere between closeted denial and
outrageous activism. This could be the crossover book many have
been waiting for - plain and sane talk about a complex issue.
(Kirkus Reviews)
With "the bracingly rational passion of a writer who can think and
feel at the same time" (The Wall Street Journal), Bruce Bawer
exposes the heated controversy over gay rights and presents a
passionate plea for the recognition of common values, "a place at
the table" for everyone.
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