The Passion of New Eve

I have a love-hate reaction to this book. On the love side, it's very poetic and explores race, gender, and gender roles in outrageous, satirical ways. On the hate side, it has a very negative portrayal of transgendered persons. Specifically, it has the notion that transitioning is an act of violence and having a different gender identity is there to shock. This book was first published in 1977, so it reflects a lot of the mentality of that time period with regards to all the issues it deals with. It's considered a post-feminist classic. But I think reading this as a trans man or woman is analogous to me reading "The Wanting Seed" by Anthony Burgess. It may be a classic, but it does not represent me or my community in a healthy, affirming light. Even as satire, this book is just too negative in its representation of trans persons.

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