Quote by Edmund White
In the case of my book, I don't think it's really the coming-out gay novel that everyone really needed, even though it was received as such. The boy is too creepy, he betrays his teacher, the only adult man with whom he's enjoyed a sexual experience, etc.
Summary
The author is expressing their perspective on their own book, suggesting that it may not have fulfilled the role of being a much-needed coming-out gay novel, even though it was perceived as such. The author highlights the problematic features of the protagonist, such as their unsettling behavior and their betrayal of the only adult man they had a sexual encounter with. By pointing out these aspects, the author potentially questions whether the book truly represents the experiences and struggles of the LGBTQ+ community in a positive, empathetic manner.
By Edmund White