Song of Myself: A Novel chronicles the gay experience from World War II through the early AIDS crisis. The novel, deeply influenced by Walt Whitman's work, offers a poignant reflection on the struggles and triumphs of the LGBTQ+ community during a pivotal era of social change.
Dr. Lawrence D. Mass, Kantrowitz's surviving life partner, provides context for the novel's relevance in today's socio-political climate. "What was once a historical chronicle has become a cautionary tale," says Mass. "Arnie's novel resonates strongly with current challenges to LGBTQ+ rights and recognition."
The publication of Song of Myself: A Novel coincides with ongoing debates about the representation of historical figures' sexuality, including that of Walt Whitman himself. Kantrowitz, a devoted Whitman scholar, sought to affirm the poet's identity as gay throughout his career.
Song of Myself: A Novel is described as a picaresque and bawdy novel, filled with adventure, humor, wisdom, and resilience. It stands as a testament to Kantrowitz's role as a sentinel voice in the Gay Liberation movement, advocating for self-realization and resistance against oppression.