We Must Love One Another or Die

Publishers Weekly - Publisher's Weekly

Larry Kramer is the closest thing to a leader that the international gay community has. The 24 contributions in this collection, written by many of today's highest-profile gays, discuss the thoroughly intemperate writer-activist and his work. A novelist (Faggots), a screenwriter (Women in Love) and a playwright (The Normal Heart), Kramer is better known as the fomenter of action and the founder of the Gay Men's Health Crisis and ACT UP to combat AIDS. Were it not for editor and longtime Kramer friend Mass's genuflectory introduction and occasional editorial indiscretions, this could possibly be a notable book. Instead, it is a worthwhile book that collects several great essays, including Gabriel Rotello's "Kramer as Prophet"; a number of very good articles, including Michael Denneny's "A Mouthful of Air"; and a few pointless pieces. Given Kramer's prophetic powers (he warned gay America of the coming plague in his famous plea, "1,112 and Counting," in 1981), his strength of character and his tirelessness, he will certainly be mythologized. This book, which begins that process, will be widely read and discussed. (Jan.)

Library Journal

In his multiple roles as pioneer AIDS activist (he was cofounder of Gay Men's Health Crisis and founder of ACT-UP), novelist (Faggots), playwright (The Normal Heart), and OscarR-nominated screenwriter (Women in Love), Kramer is one of the most importantand controversialfigures in contemporary gay America. Mass, another cofounder of GMHC, has edited a stimulating collection of essays by 22 writers who address Kramer's life, politics, and literary and theatrical careers. Contributors include fellow gay writers (Andrew Holleran, Tony Kushner, Chris Bram), academics (John D'Emilio, John Clum), fellow activists (Arnie Kantrowitz, Maxine Wolfe), acquaintances (Calvin Trillin), and even persons who have been attacked by Kramer (e.g., doctors and health officials). Mass also contributes an excellent interview and a perceptive (if somewhat self-centered) introduction. This is not a simple paean to Kramer; the texts touch on many central issues of the modern gay movement. As the first book devoted entirely to this central figure, it belongs in all collections of gay studies and contemporary political activism.Robert W. Melton, Univ. of Kansas Libs., Lawrence

Booknews

Considers the life and work, both artistic and political, of author, playwright and gay/AIDS activist Kramer. Presents a biography and extensive interview with the subject, alongside assessments of his legacy from 23 contributors including Kramer's fellow playwright Tony Kushner, such fellow writers as Calvin Trillin and Michelangelo Signorile, and AIDS scientist and National Institutes of Health official Anthony S. Fauci. Annotation c. by Book News, Inc., Portland, Or.

Booknews

Observers of the gay, AIDS, theater, and literary communities provide information and perspectives on one of the most original and influential voices of the 20th century. An interview and a biography bookend the 23 essays, which focus on Kramer as an activist, writer, and personality. Essays range from the political and historical to the personal and bittersweet. Distributed in the US by Books International. Annotation c. by Book News, Inc., Portland, Or.