I lived with Howard [Austen] for fifty years, but what we had was certainly not romantic love, not passionate love. And it certainly was nonsexual. Try to explain that to the fags.
About this quote
- What does it mean?
- He lived with Howard Austen for fifty years in a non‑romantic, non‑sexual partnership, and found it hard to explain to others.
- In plain terms
- He had a long, platonic, non‑sexual relationship that others didn’t understand.
- What can you take from it?
- Deep friendships can exist without romance or sex.
Where it applies
Putting it to work
Questions to consider
- What defines a meaningful partnership?
- How do we respect unconventional bonds?
Another view
The quote uses a derogatory term that may alienate some readers.
More from Gore Vidal
When I was young, I was bored shitless with being desired by others. I don't look in the mirror anymore.
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