But I mind," Bart said savagely. "I'd like to see a world…
““But I mind," Bart said savagely. "I'd like to see a world where I could have my picture taken, say, with Tommy on my lap if I want to. For every woman who got upset because I wasn't, shall we say, available for her romantic daydreams, there's be some young kid reading the papers and going to movies, and he'd be able to stop hating himself and say, 'Okay Bart Reeder is queer, and he's happy and successful, and he's getting along okay, so maybe I don't have to go out and hang myself after all.' And the suicide rate would go down, and everybody would be happy””
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
A character argues that visible queer representation would reduce self‑hate and suicide among LGBTQ+ youth.
In simple terms: Seeing queer people openly could lower suicide rates.
Key Takeaway
Promote authentic queer visibility.
Themes
representation
mental health
LGBTQ+ rights
media influence
self‑acceptance
Mood
hopeful
empathetic
serious
Type
social
educational
When to use this quote
- school curricula
- media production
- community support groups
Key Concepts
social stigma
identity formation
media impact
Questions to Reflect On
- How does visibility affect personal identity?
- What other factors influence LGBTQ+ mental health?
A Different Perspective
Representation alone may not change deep‑seated prejudice.