Young gay men have become icons of modernity, their bodies sculpted, moisturised and sweet-smelling. Gay men are under intense pressure to perform like so many Duracell bunnies at the gym, building smooth and muscular bodies for the society of the spectacle. But those of us who are old enough will remember that Robinson’s voice was filled with dark irony, and that gay life remains hard work.
This legacy has resulted in a reverse discourse – or a compensation narrative, depending on your point of view – where everyone, as Tom Robinson sang, is now glad to be gay. Stereotypes of previous eras contain enough sadness, shame and tragedy to fill a well of loneliness.
Modern Western gay identity has worked hard at desirability.
