Latter-Gay Saints: An Anthology of Gay Mormon Fiction

Argetsinger, professor of culture and creative studies at the National Technical Institute for the Deaf, compiles 25 pieces centering on the experience of gay Mormons. This work, the first arising from the Gay Mormon Literature Project, presents varying responses by Mormon men to their sexuality. Some remain faithful, opting for a celibate life, while others fully embrace their sexuality at the expense of their membership in the church. The diversity of responses as well as age of characters offers up a broad cross-section. The short stories, one complete play, and excerpts from longer novels and plays vary greatly in quality, though each offers insights into the struggle to reconcile faith and sexuality. The exclusive focus on gay men—there’s nothing here for lesbians or the transgendered—does limit the collection, however. The bibliography of gay Mormon fiction, film, and drama is especially useful. Although the work deals with gay Mormons, the struggles and solutions of the individuals will resonate across faith traditions and help readers better understand the cost of excluding gay members from full religious participation. (July)