8 Comments
Oct 19, 2022Liked by Aya Martin Seaver, Elizabeth

This essay enriched my understanding of Oliver very much. Secrets are a mainstay and necessity for queer survival, especially for those of Oliver’s generation. Living behind a mask is truly deforming. And kudos to Penny for delving deeply into this reality.

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You're really right the more I re-read these two books the more I admired Penny for tackling and continuing to tackle such complex realities.

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Oct 19, 2022Liked by Elizabeth, Aya Martin Seaver

This is such a touching and insightful essay! And beautifully written too. It makes sense to me that mysteries are built on secrets and lies because they have the power to deform the human character. Or elevate it, I suppose, if used for protecting others. Reading this essay helped me understand Olivier's actions in the novel in a much more profound way. I'm glad he eventually found his way to his happy ending.

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Thank you so much! I really enjoyed writing this and thinking through all the secrets and mysteries.

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Oct 19, 2022Liked by Elizabeth

Fantastic essay, Aya! I admit I've had lots of thoughts about the characterization of Olivier and Gabri throughout the series but I never thought about this book in this way -- or, now I think I did, but it was just a subconscious discomfort. So grateful for the chance to read your ideas and think about it myself.

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thank you Jackie! Would love to know your thoughts. Olivier is up there with my favorite characters.

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Oct 19, 2022Liked by Elizabeth, Aya Martin Seaver

Well penned!

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thank you!

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