Queering of a Game of Thrones

The Game of Thrones returns to HBO tonight.

The HBO series is much more raw when it comes to sexuality (sex sells after all). Incest seems to be acceptable as a way to keep the noble bloodlines "pure" (so long as your married to your sibling, infidelity is another matter). Infidelity, however, is frowned upon...and bastards more or less reviled.

The sociopolitical aspects of homosexuality haven't been addressed in the series yet, however, we have seen a pseudo-same-sex relationship between Dany and her slave that is more about teaching Dany how to seduce her Dothraki husband. And we have an apparently long term same-sex relationship going on between Prince Renly and Loras, Knight of the Flowers. It's a little kinky but there is definitely a loving relationship there.

Will we see more of the homosexuality that is only vaguely alluded to in the books?

A More Just World

There is an interesting essay in the New York Times by Meg Wolitzer today regarding an apparent disparity between men and women authors of literary fiction.

Ms. Wolitzer discusses how female literary authors are often relegated to the "Women's Fiction" section which is a category often associated with "chick lit" and romance novels. She also discusses how the dust covers often  differ between books written by men and those written by women.

So, why the difference? Marketing? If so, that's idiotic. What marketer would alienate an entire audience of potential readers?

In the 21st century, is there still a perceived "difference" between the sexes? Given to political environment of recent years, I would answer that with a resounding, yes! Racism is still alive and thriving, and homophobia is at the forefront of equality debates. It's not hard to make the jump to see that the "battle of the sexes" is still raging.

There is hope with the younger generations. We do see racism and homophobia and other inequalities disappearing almost exponentially with each successive generation. I have to believe that with each passing year we come to live in a "more just world".