Notable LGBTQ Essayists

Essays remain a popular literary format as authors can make a point more directly while still following a specific format, allowing the writer to get their point across, or tell their story more quickly. Essayists are individuals who compose short but incisive critiques on issues of interest and relevance to their community. They are writers looking to influence popular opinion on a range of prescient topics. They are thus often viewed as controversial. Essays can be serious, but they can also be comical and funny.

As Robert Atwan, the founder of The Best American Essays Series has pointed out, the best essays are deeply personal (that doesn’t necessarily mean autobiographical) and deeply engaged with issues and ideas. And the best essays show that the name of the genre is also a verb, so they demonstrate a mind in process--reflecting, trying-out, essaying.

There are a number of very prominent Essayists who identify as LGBTQ. Most of these individuals are recipients of prestigious writing prizes or other recognitions for their work. For example, France's bisexual Marguerite Yourcenar was the first woman to be elected to the Académie française (1980) - they had to install a women's washroom for the first time in the organization's history. Britain's gay E.M. Forster was a recipient of the Order of Merit and was made a Companion of Honour. Similarly, Danton Remoto of The Philippines has received many awards for his work.

LGBTQ Essayists do not necessarily write commentary on LGBTQ issues exclusively. Their topics include social and political commentary, humour, biography, culture, non-fiction, history, and current events.

We have identified he following notable LGBTQ Essayists. Simply click on their names to read their fascinating biographies.

Canada