SEXTANT: masculinities, sexualities & decolonialities

ABSTRACT

This essay examines the inheritance of masculinity left by previous generations to queer black men as represented in Daniel Black’s novel, Don’t Cry for Me. Masculinity in the black community is often comprised of the rigid standards of emotional stoicism and conformity to heterosexuality. Such standards are and have been responsible for the destruction of interpersonal and intrapersonal relationships within the black community. This essay specifically explores how black male figures have through generations contributed to the destruction of the emotional and sexual self of queer black men and boys. Additionally, this essay, through the work of Don’t Cry for Me and the suggestion of understanding and restorative love, seeks to provide healing for those queer black men and boys who wish to move forward.

KEY WOrDS

Black masculinity; gender; race; queer; literature

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