Sissies

I'm watching a most interesting documentary on the "History International" channel. A program on homosexuality in the military of Europe. So far it is concentrating on WWII in the UK.

I've read Randy Shilts' "Conduct Unbecoming" about homosexuality in the American military. But my familiarity with the situation in the UK was/is very limited.

Apparently there was more awareness than one would have thought. One sailor said there were few secrets on his ship. He was even regarded as the ship's mascot. (This guy is an absolute hoot. Funny, perceptive, telling. And courageous, beyond belief.)

The attitude toward sexuality changed in the 70s. The military took a much more rigid stance. Even seeking out celibate gays. Margaret Thatcher strikes again!

They've jumped to the Netherlands. Which, of course, has a totally different outlook on the issue. A much more enlightened context. Soldiers even attend gay festivals to enourage enlistment.

Again you can find the saga at Santaland Diaries. A highlight has to be Sedaris' version of "Away in a Manger." But done as Billie Holiday might have done it. A dead-on impression that is hysterical.

If you're not familiar with "This American Life," it is a difficult to describe. The subjects may be odd, but they manage to reveal a great deal about Americana.

One of the programs I listend to was on "Sissies." A father becomes so upset at his son's gayness that he and his wife divorce, so he can re-marry in hopes of having a son to carry on the name. There was also a segment of gay personnels that request "no fems." The narrator indicated he likes sissies because of their willingness to go against the grain in both gay and straight cultures. Does it take more courage to be macho or nelly?

PAX!