Virgil Kills

Virgil is a central character in a series of linked stories that explore race, sex, and desire through the lens of a U.S., Black, and Filipino imaginary. He moves across different locations, including Manhattan, Guam, Santa Cruz, Sacramento, Berlin, Iloilo, Provincetown, Millington, San Francisco, Long Island, and Western Mass., and records the experiences of cruising lovers, real love, family, T.V., and characters such as "Butch," "Stream," and "Clean."

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 232 pages
Publication date: 04 August 2022
Publisher: Nightboat Books

Virgil, a central character in a U.S., Black, and Filipino imaginary, weaves a tapestry of interconnected stories that explore themes of race, sex, and desire. Through his poetic lens, Virgil dismantles forms, unveiling the rich tapestry of black and brown life, memory, dreams, the sea, the sex act, and the line. His journey takes him across diverse landscapes, from the bustling streets of Manhattan to the tranquil shores of Guam, from the vibrant energy of Santa Cruz to the historic streets of Sacramento, from the cosmopolitan allure of Berlin to the quaint charm of Iloilo, from the artistic haven of Provincetown to the bustling streets of Millington, from the scenic beauty of San Francisco to the serene landscapes of Long Island, and from the rural tranquility of Western Mass.

Virgil's activism is not limited to the stage or the lectern; he takes it to the streets, challenging the boundaries of class, whiteness, and privilege. He moves against the norms and expectations imposed upon him, embracing his identity and expressing it through his art. In his recordings, Virgil captures the sensory experiences of cruising lovers, the raw emotions of real love, the complexities of family dynamics, the mesmerizing allure of T.V., and the vivid characters that populate his world—such as "Butch," "Stream," and "Clean." His precise and unfurling narratives delve into the depths of human experience, offering a profound exploration of identity, sexuality, and the complexities of society.

Through his art, Virgil invites us to witness the world from his unique perspective, challenging us to think critically and expand our understanding of the human condition. His stories resonate with audiences of all backgrounds, reminding us of the power of storytelling to bridge gaps, heal wounds, and inspire change. As we journey through Virgil's imaginary, we are reminded of the beauty and diversity of the human experience, and the importance of embracing our identities and striving for a more inclusive and equitable world.

Dimension: 203 x 139 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781643621180