Good As You: From Prejudice to Pride - 30 Years of Gay Britain

In 1984, the song "Smalltown Boy" by Smalltown Boy became an anthem for gay men, but a month later, HIV was identified, causing panic and fear. 30 years later, same-sex marriage was passed, and Paul Flynn charts this U-turn through cultural milestones, including Manchester's self-selection as Britain's gay capital and Elton John and David Furnish's marriage.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 368 pages
Publication date: 05 July 2018
Publisher: Ebury Publishing

In recent times, "The Quietus" stands as a significant and thought-provoking work that delves into the vibrant tapestry of gay culture. This remarkable book has garnered a long-list nomination for the prestigious Polari First Book Prize, testament to its profound impact.

In 1984, the enchanting electronics and soothing vocals of Smalltown Boy emerged as an anthem that brought together gay men, creating a sense of unity and camaraderie. However, just a month later, the world was gripped by fear as the HIV virus was identified, spreading panic and uncertainty across nations. This period of fear and marginalization further isolated an already marginalized community. Yet, amidst this darkness, a tender and transformative journey emerged.

Over the course of three decades, the long road to gay equality reached its pinnacle with the legalization of same-sex marriage. Paul Flynn, in his captivating narrative, charts this remarkable pop cultural and societal U-turn through the cultural milestones that drove change. From Manchester's self-proclaimed status as Britain's gay capital to the real-time romance of Elton John and David Furnish's eventual marriage, Flynn weaves a tapestry of events that shaped the course of history.

Featuring candid interviews with prominent figures such as Kylie, Russell T Davies, Will Young, Holly Johnson, and Lord Chris Smith, as well as lesser-known individuals who played crucial roles in the gay community, "The Quietus" offers a comprehensive perspective on the fight for equality. The book explores the stories of Britain's brothers, cousins, and sons, as well as their fathers and husbands, capturing the diverse experiences and struggles of this community.

This is a tale of public outrage, personal loss, and the exhilarating highs and desperate lows that accompanied the journey toward recognition and acceptance. It is a testament to the resilience and determination of gay men who, despite facing discrimination and adversity, fought tirelessly for their rights and dignity.

In the end, "The Quietus" celebrates the collective victory of gay men as they were finally recognized as Good As You. This book serves as a powerful reminder of the progress made in the fight for LGBTQ+ rights and the ongoing struggle for equality and inclusivity for all. It is a must-read for anyone interested in understanding the rich tapestry of gay culture and the remarkable stories of those who have paved the way forward.

Weight: 262g
Dimension: 127 x 198 x 23 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781785032936