Daniel Craig’s Queer updates the Burroughs original — for better or worse
William S. Burroughs and Anthony Burgess, two iconic authors known for their controversial works, both had complicated relationships with their own creations. Just as Burroughs did not like to think about writing “Queer,” Burgess also had reservations about his novel “A Clockwork Orange.” Both men, through a series of misunderstandings and adaptations, found themselves unintentional experts on the themes of their texts.
As Luca Guadagnino’s adaptation of Burroughs’ “Queer” is set to hit theaters, it’s interesting to note the parallels between the trajectories of these two authors. While “Queer” may seem like a groundbreaking LGBTQ+ love story, it was actually Burroughs’ attempt to purge himself of painful autobiographical elements that could seep into his works.
The story follows William Lee, an American in Mexico City waiting out a drug charge, who becomes infatuated with Eugene Allerton, a young man moving in and out of the local queer scene. Lee’s pursuit of Allerton leads them on a journey to Ecuador in search of a mystical drug that may grant them telepathy. The narrative is filled with sex scenes, self-acceptance lessons, and esoteric symbolism, culminating in a poignant and bittersweet ending.
However, the true essence of “Queer” lies in Burroughs’ personal history, including traumatic treatments to erase his homosexuality and a tragic incident involving his wife. The novella serves as a reflection of his own warped view of romance and past traumas, offering a bleak and pessimistic commentary on intimacy and love.
Guadagnino’s adaptation stays faithful to the novella, capturing the essence of Lee’s character and the emotional depth of the story. While some elements are altered or omitted for modern audiences, the film retains the melancholic tone and fatalistic themes of the original text.
In a world filled with feel-good LGBTQ+ love stories, “Queer” stands out as a somber and introspective exploration of loneliness and longing. Burroughs’ original intentions may be lost on those unfamiliar with his background, but the adaptation manages to convey the essence of his work while adding a contemporary touch.
Ultimately, “Queer” serves as a reminder of the complexities of love and human connection, offering a stark contrast to the more mainstream narratives of self-acceptance and happiness. Burroughs’ legacy lives on through this haunting and thought-provoking tale, challenging audiences to look beyond the surface and delve into the darker aspects of the human experience.
