Meaning: Thom Gunn, a British poet who was known for his exploration of themes related to homosexuality and his candid portrayal of gay life, wrote the quote, "When I first started to write, I was aware of being queer, but I didn't write about it. Queer poems would probably not have been accepted by the editors I sent them to." This quote reflects the challenges faced by LGBTQ+ writers in a time when societal attitudes towards homosexuality were less accepting and the literary world was often unwelcoming to works that openly addressed queer themes.

Gunn's acknowledgment of being queer but not openly addressing it in his early writing speaks to the societal pressures and limitations that LGBTQ+ writers faced in the past. The quote suggests that Gunn felt compelled to conceal his identity as a gay man in his work, possibly out of fear of rejection or marginalization by publishers and editors. This sentiment is reflective of the broader societal attitudes towards homosexuality during the time when Gunn began his writing career.

The mid-20th century, when Gunn first started writing, was a period marked by widespread social stigma and discrimination against LGBTQ+ individuals. In many parts of the world, homosexuality was criminalized, and those who openly identified as queer or sought to express their experiences in their creative work often faced significant backlash and ostracism. This hostile environment had a profound impact on the literary landscape, leading many LGBTQ+ writers to grapple with the decision of whether to openly address their identities and experiences in their writing.

The quote also sheds light on the pervasive influence of editorial gatekeeping and the limitations it placed on LGBTQ+ writers. Gunn's mention of the reluctance to submit "queer poems" to editors due to the likely lack of acceptance underscores the barriers that LGBTQ+ writers encountered in getting their work published. This points to a broader issue of representation and inclusion within the literary world, where works that deviated from heteronormative themes often struggled to find a platform.

Despite the challenges he faced, Gunn later went on to create a body of work that unapologetically delved into queer themes and experiences. His poetry, which often explored topics such as desire, intimacy, and the complexities of gay life, played a significant role in challenging the literary status quo and paving the way for greater LGBTQ+ representation in literature.

Gunn's quote is a poignant reminder of the struggles and obstacles that LGBTQ+ writers have historically faced in navigating the literary landscape. It serves as a testament to the resilience and determination of these writers in asserting their voices and experiences, even in the face of societal and institutional barriers. Furthermore, it prompts reflection on the progress that has been made in creating a more inclusive and welcoming space for LGBTQ+ voices in literature, while also highlighting the continued importance of amplifying diverse narratives and perspectives within the literary world.

In conclusion, Thom Gunn's quote encapsulates the complex realities that LGBTQ+ writers have grappled with, from navigating societal stigma and censorship to confronting editorial barriers. It serves as a powerful reminder of the significance of representation and the ongoing struggle for inclusivity within the literary sphere. While reflecting on the challenges of the past, it also underscores the resilience and tenacity of LGBTQ+ writers in asserting their voices and experiences, contributing to a more diverse and representative literary landscape.