Gay New York

by George Chauncey
Gay New York cover
Good Books rating 4.23
History, Identity, Culture, Sociology
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  • ID: 8455
  • Added: 2025-12-22
  • Updated: 2025-12-22
  • Published: 1994-05-27
  • Reviews: 3

Gay New York offers a captivating exploration of a gay world that was thought not to have existed before the war. The book reveals that gay life in prewar New York was not only remarkably visible but also extensively integrated into the straight world. This fascinating account challenges the conventional wisdom about the history of gay life in America. Through meticulous research and engaging storytelling, the author brings to life the stories of individuals and communities that thrived in this era. The book provides a unique perspective on the social and cultural landscape of New York City, offering insights into the ways in which gay life was woven into the fabric of the city. This is a must-read for anyone interested in LGBTQ+ history, urban studies, or the broader cultural history of America.

Reviews
Comprehensive Review Fandom · 2025-12-22
detailed 4.20

The book is commended for its detailed examination of the evolution of gay male culture in New York City between 1890 and the beginning of World War II.

This review praises the book for its detailed examination of the evolution of gay male culture in New York City. They highlight how the book looks at the visible, complex, and continually changing gay male world during this period. The reviewer appreciates the depth of research and the way it sheds light on the broader social dynamics and cultural shifts of the time, making it a significant contribution to LGBTQ+ history.

Quick quotes

    Chauncey's Gay New York looks at how a visible, complex, and continually changing gay male world took shape between 1890 and the beginning of World War II.

    The book provides a detailed examination of the evolution of gay male culture in New York City.

    It sheds light on the broader social dynamics and cultural shifts of the time.

AudioFile Magazine · 2025-12-22
comprehensive 4.00

The audiobook is noted for its engaging narration and comprehensive exploration of gay male culture in New York City from 1890 to 1940.

This review focuses on the audiobook version of the book, highlighting the engaging narration by Graham Halstead. They appreciate the comprehensive exploration of gay male culture in New York City during the specified period. The reviewer finds the historical context and cultural insights provided by the book to be both informative and engaging, making it a valuable listen for those interested in LGBTQ+ history.

Quick quotes

    George Chauncey's seminal history of gay male culture in New York City from 1890-1940.

    The audiobook is a valuable listen for those interested in LGBTQ+ history.

    Graham Halstead's narration brings the historical context and cultural insights to life.

Kirkus Reviews · 2025-12-22
brilliant 4.50

The book is praised for its significant contribution to both gay history and the study of urban life, class, gender, and heterosexuality.

This review highlights the book's groundbreaking contribution to understanding gay history and urban culture. They emphasize how the book challenges traditional narratives and provides a nuanced look at the complexities of gay life in New York City. The reviewer appreciates the depth of research and the way it sheds light on the broader social dynamics of the time.

Quick quotes

    Chauncey has made a stunning contribution not only to gay history, but to the study of urban life, class, gender—and heterosexuality.

    The book challenges the myth that gay life before the 1960s was confined to the closet.

    It provides a nuanced look at the complexities of gay life in New York City.

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