Exploring sexual liberation in middle age: An intersectional analysis of homosexual women in Jackie Kay's short stories

Abstract

The aging experiences of non-heterosexual women are frequently overlooked and undervalued in contemporary society. Consequently, the prevailing perception of middle-aged women predominantly revolves around their roles as heterosexual partners or mothers. As a result, some homosexual women may feel compelled to conceal their sexual orientation, only revealing their identity later in life as they age. Researchers are increasingly moving beyond simplistic notions of aging and adopting an intersectional approach to explore the complex relationship between aging, gender, and sexuality, enabling a deeper understanding of the intricate dynamics of social division and identity (Almack et al., 2020). However, the majority of women's aging narratives primarily assume heterosexuality, creating a significant research gap and hindering our understanding of how patterns of successful aging may diverge among lesbian adults (Cruikshank, 2013; Van Wagenen et al., 2013).

This paper explores the intersection of sexuality, gender, and aging in homosexual women through an analysis of three short stories by the prominent Scottish writer Jackie Kay: “Physics and Chemistry” (2002), “Grace and Rose” (2012), and “The First Lady of Song” (2012). These stories contemplate the aging journey as a challenging but liberating process, where five protagonists embrace their sexual orientation in their middle age, boldly claiming their place in a society that excludes them. Framed within the interdisciplinary field of aging studies, this paper offers an intersectional analysis of these three fictional narratives. By delving into these stories, the study aims to deepen our comprehension of the challenges homosexual women face as they navigate the aging process, underscoring the need for a greater recognition of their experiences.