The Queer Dad Tapes: Volume 1

Fifty-five gay fathers, interviewed at the turn of the century and born in the UK between the 1930's and '60's, talk about their lives, from childhood and growing up, through heterosexual married relationships that broke down, to being out in the gay community and still in touch with their children. They speak very articulately, with great honesty and sincerity, and often very movingly, about complicated life journeys. Their stories cover a huge range of experiences including politics and religion, sex and relationships, family and parenting, therapy, abuse, growing up in care, bullying, and more.

Inspirational, these accounts at times resemble epic voyages, with much soul-searching, confusion, internal conflict, the making of many difficult choices and yet a continual search for truth, harmony, resolution, connection, meaningfulness. Vividly and importantly, they document much of the harsh, homophobic and challenging legal and social context that was the everyday reality of LBGTQ+ people growing up in twentieth century Britain.

Yet the turn of the century was also a time when a new world seemed to be dawning. Social attitudes and legislation were, almost imperceptibly, changing. Over and above depictions of adversity, the stories triumph as brave, celebratory testimonies. They speak of painful times yet their enduring message is of love, courage and hope.