Gay Poem: In Color by Ameer Drane

The digital, in color version of Gay Poem by Ameer Drane. 

WHAT IS A GAY POEM?

gay poem [geɪ poʊ-əm]

noun

1) a poem ridiculed using “gay” as an insult.

2) a poem expressing pride in its queerness.

3) a poem written by or about someone who is gay.

4) a poem about same-sex love, intimacy, and desire.

5) this book: a collection of poems reflecting on the intersections of gay hookup culture, queer identity, race, social media, mental health, and American politics.

Reviews for Gay Poem

"Gay Poem is an amazing collection of poems and prose exploring the unique intersection of being gay and Black in current times. Ameer Drane is a voice to be reckoned with. If you're already into poetry, you'll love his work; if you're getting back into poetry, you'll find something in this book that will resonate with you and leave you wanting to read and hear more."

— Frederick Smith, Author of One and Done and Love is a Contact Sport

"Inspiring and important in the current political climate. Gay Poem is a testament to Queer empowerment. These poems will resonate with so many queer people."

— Nunoy van den Burgh, Choreographer, Model, and Creative Producer

"Gay Poem lands like a necessary spanking we all need—especially if we have ever participated in the lazy, inherited rhetoric or stereotypes that diminish others. A raw vulnerability pulses throughout this book. It is uncomfortable, confronting, and ultimately liberating."

— Gabriela Moriarty, Bangkok Poet and Artist

"From begging for others to 'Validate me' to insisting they 'Deal with it,' this book charts the path to radical self-love in a world of cheap thrills, digital commodification, and objectification that devalues and constricts the Self into the forgettable little boxes Pete Seeger sang about. It's as much a self-reflective journey of transformation as an inward-focused cultural critique that shows us a shattered self cannot rebuild the shattered world around them."

— Pableroy, Director of Bangkok Lyrical Lunacy

"A powerful reflection on the gay experience and what it looks like to liberate ourselves through acceptance of our gifts as much as our shadows. I never expected a book of poetry to capture so artfully the trials, hopes, and tribulations of my 20’s, from the dance floors to the quiet days after. These poems make parts of me flinch and then soften at finally feeling understood and held at the same time."

— Craig Cassey, Sex & Relationship Coach

"Gay Poem asks a question most poets won't touch: what does it actually feel like to inhabit a queer Black body in relation to other queer men's bodies? Drane doesn't look away—from the longing, the objectification, or the ambivalence about both."

— Dr. Ryan M. Kull, Psychoanalyst

"Gay Poem is a revelation; each poem charts the author’s perspective navigating the queer Black experience. His loneliness, heartbreak, and hypersexuality reflect how one copes in a fetishized ecosystem, ultimately reclaiming these aspects as proud, self-assured, and sensual. Ameer’s debut highlights the emergence of a new poetic voice poised to cement itself among the greats."

— Lisa Wills, Writer and Founder of Knicname Films