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Multiculturalism and Social Work | San Francisco State University

Truman Capote: Homosexual or transgendered?

Author: Seil, David
Author Background:
Date Winter 2000
Type Journal
Journal Title: Gender-and-Psychoanalysis
Volume/Pages Vol 5(1): 67-80
Publisher
Subject Matter Male, Men, Analysis; Homosexuality; Transsexualism
Population
Pedagogies
Abstract Scrutiny of biographical material of Truman Capote reveals patterns more indicative of ego-dystonic transsexuality than the alcoholic homosexuality Capote himself publicly proclaimed. Capote cannot be interviewed in person but recorded behavior and statements that are otherwise pulling gain internal consistency when compared with those of other untreated gender dysphoric males. Performing psychological analysis of artistic productions is understandably open to question. However, Capote admitted drawing on autobiographical material for his writings. He is indeed credited with creating a new form of literature-- nonfiction fiction. The content, particularly of the early writings, contains themes clearly dealing with problems of gender identity, an unusual subject for that period. Capote's concession to the social pressures that force suppression of gender variation ended tragically. (PsycINFO Database Record (c) 2000 APA, all rights reserved)(journal abstract)
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