Bruce Benderson Books

Exploring the intersections of culture, identity, and urban life, this collection of essays presents a vivid tapestry of eccentric characters and subcultures. Benderson's sharp observations delve into contemporary issues, from the impact of the Internet on public spaces to the complexities of art and sexuality. His iconoclastic views challenge conventional wisdom, offering fresh perspectives on often-overlooked topics. This volume includes both new essays and notable works, showcasing Benderson's wit and intellectual depth.

A Queer Classic published in the UK for the first time. By the bestselling author of The Romanian, winner of the Prix de France.

'History follows a trail of sputtering desire, often calling upon the delusions of lovers to generate the sparks. If it weren't for us, the world would suffer from a dismal lack of stories.' In this brutally candid memoir, writer, translator and journalist Bruce Benderson recounts his unrequited love for an impoverished Romanian whom he meets while on a journalism assignment in Eastern Europe. Rather than retreat, Benderson absorbs everything he can about Romania, its culture and its history and discovers a mirror in it for his own turmoil: the wild affairs of its last king, Carol II. Free of bitterness, nastiness, or any desire to protect himself, he is sustained throughout by little white codeine pills, a poetic self-awareness, a sense of humor, and an unwavering belief in the perfect romance, even as wild dogs chase him down Romanian streets.

Bruce Benderson's fiction vividly explores the complex dynamics of urban life over five decades, highlighting the stark contrasts between social classes and the vibrant subcultures of sex and drugs. With a unique blend of candor and biting wit, he brings to life the oppressed yet flamboyant voices from the underground, creating an intense narrative that demands attention. His striking imagery captures the warped beauty of megalopolises, making his work a compelling reflection of contemporary society.

Le poing d'Apollo qui s'écrase sur le visage du videur du théâtre porno où il exerce ses talents très spéciaux marque la fin d'une époque, l'âge d'or de l'empire du vice à Times Square. Le videur est grièvement blessé. C'est le point de départ d'une cavale dans un monde interlope sur le déclin, où Apollo fait figure d'ange d'échu : fumeries de crack et boîtes semi-clandestnes peuplées de travelos, filles perdues, loubards des minorités ethniques et petits-bourgeois blancs. Ils se mêlent et se croisent, passé minuit, dans le NO MAN'S LAND de la prostitution et de la drogue. " Roman de la nuit, incandescent et frénétique, qui s'achève en forme de chant funèbre dans l'éclat déchirant des premières lueurs du jour. " LE MONDE