Close to the Knives: A Memoir of Disintegration is an iconic work by American activist and artist David Wojnarowicz. Published in 1991, this radical and raw autobiography explores his life in New York City during the 1970s and 1980s, chronicling his experience as a gay man in a world that marginalizes those who don't conform to established norms. Wojnarowicz offers a visceral account of the struggle against homophobia, art as a means of resistance, and the devastating impact of the AIDS crisis—themes that run throughout his work. His reflections are a direct confrontation with the injustices and violence he faced, and a reminder of the need to continue fighting for the visibility and rights of LGBTQ+ people.

Close to the Knives is more than an autobiography; it's a furious manifesto against oppression. Through a lyrical and uncompromising style, David Wojnarowicz invites us into his mind and his experience as a gay man, artist, and activist during a time marked by rejection, fear, and pain. This book is an ode to resistance, a protest that combines the power of art with the urgency of survival. Wojnarowicz offers a unique and challenging perspective on politics, culture, and sexuality, making his work an essential testimony for those seeking to understand life on the margins.

Book details

Written by: David Wojnarowicz

Language: English

Measurements: 304 pages

Softcover: 304 pages

ISBN: 978-1786890276