[Laughlyn]

For a course I took we read an extract from an autobiography about a gay man who was classified as mentally unwell due to his sexual orientation.

The part I read was about his early sexual experiences. I think, but am not sure, that his mother may have had involvement in his classification as being mentally unfit.

I remember the book as being amazingly well written and have always wanted to read the whole thing. If anyone has any ideas of any autobiographies that seem to fit this description, please fill me in.

Thankyou

[Linda]

Have you thought about e-mailing the professor who taught the course? That may be the quickest way to solve the mystery.

If that is not possible, perhaps you can add a few more clues to your description of the book.

In what country did the man live? Any place names would be helpful, as would personal names, even just first names.

Approximately when did the events of the book take place?

Do you remember any details about the man's life that might help with choosing terms for a Google search? Was he, for example, studying for a particular profession? Was a certain setting (e.g., summer camp, private school) important? Did he have any special hobbies (e.g., art, music, sports, theater, pets)?

I'm game to have a go at tracking down the book if you can give a little more information about it, and additional details might jog another reader's memory.
_________________
Linda

[Laughlyn]

Thanks for your response.

More information:

In regards to the early sexual experiences I alluded to above, he describes someone having "hypnotised" him so that they could give him oral sex (if I remember correctly). I think that may have happened on a summer camp.

Also I recall the following phrase: "Once I had drunk deep from a smelly teenage cock..."

I remember it because it was so evocative, beautiful and disgusting. I could never forget that phrase.

I hope that helps. I might see if I can find the lecturer's email, I'm no longer at that university.

[Linda]

Hmmm. Not exactly what I had in mind with regard to search terms, but I may have found the book. Have a look at Edmund White's *My Lives: An Autobiography* (New York: HarperCollins, 2006). Is that it?
_________________
Linda

[Linda]

A quick trip to the local public library has confirmed what the Google search suggested: White's book is the one that you are seeking. (See page 5.)

Happy reading!
_________________
Linda