WritersReadOnline.com is a live series in which writers read their essays aloud at the Cell Theater on West 23rd Street in New York City. Founded by Ed McCann, himself a writer and editor, the series recently included ten featured writers who were selected (by an editorial board) to read works aloud on the theme of “At the Bar.”
Hearing of this theme, I felt compelled to write an essay about the life of gay bars in New York when I was a young man here, and my perspective on them now. My piece is titled “Time to Go Home” and describes the rich array of clubs and discos for gay men that continued to rock and roll through the 1980s and beyond.
The reading took place on Sunday, October 11. Log on to the site to see the submissions policy for the next reading.
Discussion2 Comments
An incredible reading, appreciated by someone who experienced the gay bars of NY as I was coming out in the late 60’s and early 70’s. I never felt like I fit in at any of them, and appreciate and understand that sense of awkwardness so much more now. The [gay] world is so much different now…
Dear Marc,
It’s so kind of you to send along these remarks. In many ways, you are completely correct about the changes in gay life today and, yet, I do hear from many young gay men who are as perplexed by the whole process as we were when we were younger. I’m grateful to have experienced the bars when I did and to still be experiencing gay life now…
With many thanks,
David