Dances of Time and Tenderness

Dances of Time and Tenderness is a transpoetic history of desire and touch, blending memory and movement in a dance hall of rage, sweetness, and sorrow, tracing a transgenderational lineage of queer carnality.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 144 pages
Publication date: 18 July 2024
Publisher: Nightboat Books

A captivating and transpoetic journey through queer memory, activism, death, and art, "Dances of Time and Tenderness" weaves a cycle of stories that explore the intersections of desire and touch. This bold and sensual dance hall brings together the dead and the living, tracing a transgenderational lineage of queer carnality. Rather than a mere memoir, it invites us to join artists, AIDS activists, sailors, and skeletons in fulfilling the trans promise: "what we do with our bodies changes worlds."

The cycle begins in the dungeons of 1990s San Francisco, where the stories of queer resistance and resilience unfold. It then moves to the goldsmiths' forges of the earliest cities, where the trans experience is intertwined with the history of craftsmanship. Through dance, poetry, and visual art, the stories explore the complexities of queer desire, the power of activism, and the enduring legacy of those who have died.

One of the key themes of the cycle is the notion of transpoetic storytelling. Carter uses dance and movement to convey the emotions and experiences of the characters, creating a visceral and immersive experience for the audience. The stories are told in a non-linear fashion, allowing the audience to connect the dots and piece together the narrative in their own way. This approach allows for a deeper understanding of the characters and their struggles, as well as the broader social and political context in which they operate.

Another important aspect of the cycle is the exploration of queer memory. Carter draws on personal experiences and historical research to create a rich tapestry of queer history. The stories are filled with vivid descriptions of the sights, sounds, and smells of the past, as well as the emotions and experiences of the characters. This allows the audience to connect with the past in a personal and meaningful way, and to see how it has shaped the present.

The cycle also addresses the issue of death and dying. Carter explores the ways in which queer individuals have been marginalized and silenced in the face of death, and how they have fought back against these forces. The stories include accounts of AIDS activism, suicide, and the struggle for LGBTQ+ rights. These stories are powerful and emotional, and they remind the audience of the importance of fighting for justice and equality.

In addition to the stories, the cycle features a range of visual art and poetry. The visual art includes paintings, sculptures, and installations that reflect the themes of the cycle. The poetry is written by Carter and other artists, and it adds a layer of depth and complexity to the stories. The poetry is often lyrical and evocative, and it captures the emotions and experiences of the characters in a powerful way.

One of the most striking aspects of the cycle is the way in which it blends dance and movement with other forms of art. Carter uses dance to convey the emotions and experiences of the characters, but he also incorporates other forms of art, such as poetry and visual art, to create a more complete and immersive experience. This approach allows the audience to engage with the stories on a deeper level, and to see how they are interconnected.

Overall, "Dances of Time and Tenderness" is a bold and innovative cycle of transpoetic stories that explore the intersections of desire and touch. It brings together the dead and the living, tracing a transgenderational lineage of queer carnality. Through dance, poetry, and visual art, the stories explore the complexities of queer desire, the power of activism, and the enduring legacy of those who have died. Whether you are a fan of dance, poetry, or visual art, this cycle is sure to leave a lasting impression on you.

Weight: 240g
Dimension: 153 x 216 x 14 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781643622347