Here are some discussion questions for _Queer_. Please add yours to the list below. And remember, we will be returning to "Pkhentz" at the beginning of class, so feel free to add to or modify the questions you posted on Thursday.
- How does Burroughs distinguish himself as author from the somewhat autobiographical hero of his novel? (xii-xvi)
- What is the unmentioned event that “[motivates] and [forms]” Queer? (xviii) How does it seep into the text?
-What is the nature of time in Queer? Close-read pp. 18-19.
- What is the role of the “exotic” and how does it bind desire to racial alterity or otherness?
How does the alienation caused by Lee's sexual orientation affect his interactions with others? Does he treat straight men differently than gay men? What about (potential) sexual partners versus platonic friends?
ReplyDeleteIn the book, Lee is always seen drinking and consuming drugs. What is the significance of alcohol and drug consumption to Lee in the novel?
ReplyDeleteDescribe some parallels between Burroughs and his main character Lee. Why do they both desire for audience for their story?
ReplyDeleteHow does the gloomy and dangerous setting of Mexico affect the reader's perception of Lee and his actions?
ReplyDelete^I have no idea why my name isn't showing up, but the Unknown person who made the above comment is Christine Garibian
ReplyDeletesorry, but are we reading up to chapter 2 or finishing chapter 2
ReplyDeletegrace
Duly noted, Christine. I'll keep that in mind as I give credit for this and future blog posts.
ReplyDeleteGrace, finishing chapter 2.
ReplyDeletethanks!
ReplyDeletegrace
Discuss the importance of noting that Lee is both quick to leave and has strong cravings that he must fulfill? Do you think this is leading his relationship with Allerton?
ReplyDeleteIn the introduction, the author states that a withdrawing addict is "subject to the emotional excesses of a child or adolescent." However, he also describes Lee's quest for a sexual object as unsexual and systematic, suggesting some form of emotional detachment. Are these two points related to or at odds with each other at all?
ReplyDeleteThe concept of decay seems to be very significant in Lee's description of people and his surroundings. What might this reveal about Lee himself?
ReplyDeleteWhat is the significance of the fact that Lee keeps on seeing Moor although Lee expresses explicit dislike towards Moor?
ReplyDeleteGrace
Lee keeps seeking sexual encounters with strangers. Is this more of an act to alleviate his loneliness or mere a means to fulfill his sexual desire?
ReplyDeleteJoseph
Burroughs seems to suggests a relationship between homosexuality and animal behavior. What is the relationship between the two, and what is it's significance?
ReplyDeleteWhat do you suppose we are supposed to learn about Lee based on his relationship with Carl in the opening pages of the novel?
ReplyDelete