Hi Bernard,
Hope things are going well for you and the next Uhtred book progressing steadily. In response to Cody’s ‘question’ regarding sexual diversity (not sure if I’m keen on the word ‘deviant’ as this was coined by those who often misunderstood or didn’t tolerate LGBT rights), I’d also mention the Ancient Greeks for completely understanding sexual orientation; bisexuality was far more widespread and tolerated than today’s society. And the Greeks verged on the genius when it came to military, philosophical, and architectural matters. Even the Romans – after defeating their phalanx tactics – gave a grudging nod to their civilization’s legacy. On to gender identity, I’m also wondering if Cody was referring to how some women are more masculine and favoured the Amazonian warrior’s life as opposed to the gentile ladies in waiting. Is that gender identity or simply preferences of a different kind? A kind of tom-boy approach. And then you have some men who enjoy wearing ladies clothing, often because of a fascination or comfort factor, including famous people such as Eddie Izzard or the director Ed Wood. Men applying make up appeared during the 80’s New Romance pop scene, but while Boy George is gay, and David Bowie was bisexual, many others who adopted this style were (at least to a large extent) heterosexual. The Sexual and Gender Diversity range is truly a confusing one to those who choose to remain in ignorance. It’s also a fluid one where gay, lesbian, bisexual or heterosexual people find themselves questioning where they stand in their orientation. I often say it’s not what you are, it’s who you are. Many people – whatever their orientation – dislike labelling themselves. While some nobly go out on a crusade to raise LGBT awareness, others are quietly content with their sexual and gender preferences. As Alfie once said: ‘if you haven’t go peace of mind, you’ve got nothing’. Sound advice for those coming to terms with their sexual orientation and/or gender identity, either young or old.
Robert Douglas