Pride Month: 4 novels that beautifully narrate LGBTQIA+ stories

"…Following our previous article discussing the significant role of LGBTQIA+ inspiration and creativity in the fashion world, today #Legend_th stands in solidarity and celebrates the opportunities of Pride Month 2024 once again through 4 impactful novels related to the LGBTQ+ community. These books promise to enrich, move, and impress you unexpectedly…"

André Aciman: Call Me by Your Name

When it comes to novels that depict LGBTQ+ themes, "Call Me by Your Name" is one of the most renowned and enduringly popular over time. The story revolves around the romance between a young boy, Elio (played by Timothée Chalamet), and a charming student, Oliver (played by Armie Hammer), an American scholar who comes to stay and conduct research at his family's villa in the Italian Riviera. While the plot itself may not be exceptionally unique, the novel captivates with its seaside atmosphere and the charm of northern Italy. It portrays the characters' confusion, desires, curiosity, and disappointments within the constraints of their relationship, embodying a dynamic coming-of-age narrative that is nuanced and unforgettable in the realms of love and LGBTQIA+ literature.

James Baldwin: Giovanni's Room

Another notable novel by James Baldwin that delves deeply into the profound pain of a young French boy growing up without the nurturing presence of his mother is "Giovanni's Room." The story vividly portrays David's inner struggle regarding his sexuality and his relationship with Giovanni, an Italian bartender living in Paris. Set against the backdrop of societal norms that condemn and refuse to accept their relationship, along with the prevalent issues faced by the LGBTQ+ community during the 1950s, the novel eloquently captures the clear narrative of pain and conflict.

Sarah Waters: Tipping the Velvet

A notable novel by Sarah Waters, "Tipping the Velvet," tells the story of Nancy Astley, a young woman from a fishing family in a coastal town on an English island. Her relationships conform to societal norms until she encounters Kitty Butler, a female impersonator, who changes Nancy's world dramatically. Through both highs and lows, up and down, the narrative explores love, disappointment, and the twists of life. This novel seamlessly blends Sarah Waters' masterful storytelling skills, plunging readers deep into Nancy's emotions, making it no surprise that "Tipping the Velvet" remains one of the most celebrated lesbian novels to date.

Michael Cunningham: The Hours

The award-winning novel "The Hours" by American writer Michael Cunningham has gained global acclaim for intertwining the stories of three women across different periods, all unfolding within a single day. One of them is Virginia Woolf (portrayed by Nicole Kidman), the famous author of "Mrs. Dalloway," who struggles with deep pain and chooses to leave the world in 1941. Another character is Clarissa Vaughan (played by Meryl Streep), a socially adept woman with unspoken heartache. The third woman is Laura Brown (portrayed by Julianne Moore), a troubled housewife burdened by the duties of motherhood, who finds solace in reading Virginia Woolf's "Mrs. Dalloway." This connection serves as the narrative thread linking all their stories together.

Also See: Pride Month: A Showcase of LGBTQIA+ Creativity and Contributions to the Fashion World