Inscribing a lesbian reader, projecting a lesbian subject: a Jane Rule diptych

Area of Science:

• Literary Criticism
• Gender Studies
• Canadian Literature

Background:

• Examines the pioneering work of Canadian lesbian novelist Jane Rule.
• Focuses on Rule's short fiction, particularly "Dulce" and "Home Movie."
• Contextualizes Rule's writing within the homophobic climate of postwar North America.

Discussion:

• Applies feminist reading strategies to "Dulce" to demonstrate lesbian reader inscription.
• Utilizes lesbian and queer theory to analyze "Home Movie" and its projection of a lesbian subject.
• Explores the intersection of time, theory, and textual analysis in understanding Rule's oeuvre.

Key Insights:

• Jane Rule's short fiction actively constructs and validates lesbian identities.
• Feminist and queer theoretical frameworks are essential for uncovering hidden lesbian narratives.
• Rule's work offers a significant contribution to understanding lesbian creative practice under societal oppression.

Outlook:

• Suggests further research into Rule's broader literary contributions.
• Encourages continued application of critical theory to marginalized literary traditions.
• Highlights the enduring relevance of studying lesbian literature for contemporary gender and sexuality studies.