“International LGB Literature up to 1923” assembles a chorus of voices, comprising 30 luminaries hailing from both the American and European landscapes, all of whom identify as gay, lesbian, or bisexual. Spanning the temporal expanse from the 16th to the early 20th centuries, this anthology serves as a literary testament to the multifaceted expressions of non-normative sexual identities. Primarily ensconced in the realm of poetry, the compilation resonates with verses that traverse emotions, experiences, and the very essence of existence. Among its verses, a resounding anthem born amidst the throes of World War I in 1915 stands tall, underscoring the power of art as a reflection of the times.
This anthology, while centered on poetic articulation, also extends a literary hand through the inclusion of select short stories and essays, creating a diverse tapestry of literary forms. A significant facet of this collection involves the invitation to engage with non-English works in their pristine linguistic incarnations, wherever feasible. This beckoning not only preserves the authenticity of these works but also enables a direct communion with the nuances of cultural context and linguistic cadence.
A succinct overview, tendered by the hand of BellonaTimes, encapsulates the thematic essence and structural components of this anthology, inviting readers to immerse themselves in an exploration of love, identity, and the myriad shades of human connection as vividly painted by these distinguished literary voices.