Quentin Crisp Books

A comical and poignant memoir of a gay man living life as he pleased in the 1930sIn 1931, gay liberation was not a movement—it was simply unthinkable. But in that year, Quentin Crisp made the courageous decision to "come out" as a homosexual. This exhibitionist with the henna-dyed hair was harassed, ridiculed and beaten. Nevertheless, he claimed his right to be himself—whatever the consequences. The Naked Civil Servant is both a comic masterpiece and a unique testament to the resilience of the human spirit.

With a keen eye for cinema and a sharp wit, the author reflects on over seventy years of film history, offering insightful essays on both movies and their stars. Drawing from personal encounters with iconic figures like Lillian Gish and John Hurt, he combines humor with a clear moral perspective, positioning himself as an unexpected advocate for common sense in the film industry. The book begins with thoughtful essays on stardom and Hollywood's evolution, making it a delightful read for film enthusiasts.