International Gay & Lesbian Review

Vertical Intercourse

• Nonfiction
• Publisher: Black Books
• Publication Date: 2000

“Vertical Intercourse” is his third novel in a quasi autobiographical series that have dealt with contemporary issues in gay men's lives. “Facing It” was about the advent of AIDS; “Longing” was about sexual desire; now “Vertical Intercourse” is about finding meaning and love in these latter days of the epidemic. The novel recounts a gay San Franciscan's course of brief psychotherapy as he moves from self-absorption to interest in spiritual practice and realization that he has fallen in love. In a mix of fiction and autobiography reminiscent of Armistead Maupin's “The Night Listener,” this experienced commentator on gay issues shares his thoughts and discoveries about the meaning of gay life. It's a little self-obsessed, but of course that's the point. It's a satisfying novel and a good read.

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