Impossible Relations, Ethical Relations: The Stakes of #OwnVoices Representation in LGBTQ Young Adult Fiction

Abstract

This article analyzes trends in LGBTQ-themed young adult novels to consider the stakes and complexities of #OwnVoices-authored books. One question that emerges with #OwnVoices is whether it is necessary or desirable for the identity of the main character to match that of the author in terms of gender, sexuality, race, ethnicity, class, and ability. This is a particularly complex question when it comes to the many permutations of gender and sexuality. How closely must one’s identity align to be considered #OwnVoices? Can any LGBTQ-identified author write any LGBTQ-identified character? The goal of this article is to shift the terms of these questions. While #OwnVoices books, when taken as a whole, are undoubtably better at depicting complex, fully fleshed out, humanized LGBTQ characters, this analysis explores why and how complex and multi-dimensional representations occur, arguing that an ethical politics of representation does not rely on #OwnVoices authors. The nonlinearity and fluidity of queer phenomena likewise suggest that writers might explore and represent experiences and identities that have not yet been named and therefore cannot yet be claimed by authors. By shifting the terms of this discussion, we can distance the conversation about the politics of representation away from gatekeeping (who is allowed to do what) and instead engage more collaboratively in the project of resisting and negating existing prejudice.

Keywords

• #ownvoices
• lgbtq ya novels
• queer representation
• ethical relationality
• authenticity