Queer Lineage

This chapter proposes a new concept, ‘queer lineage’, which refers to intergenerational queer interpersonal connections that look to the past in ways that are significant in the present. It draws on Ken Plummer’s theory of generational sexualities, to incorporate an intersectional approach to the generational narratives of sexualities that co-exist in the same present moment. Exploring contemporary representations of elder LGBTQ lives in visual culture and their popularity with younger audiences, the chapter argues that cross-generational connections can be foundational to queer community and often exist alongside intergenerational dialogue and positive relationality. The chapter includes some autobiographical reflections on the author’s experience of queer lineage and concludes with some thoughts on queer grief.