A Pride Anthology


This Pride month we’re celebrating the beauty of self-expression and human connection with eight pieces that champion the loves and lives of the LGBTQ+ community. In his poem “No One Knows the Way to Heaven,” Ocean Vuong writes, “When you get here, I’ll tell you everything.” We can’t think of a better invitation to read these stunning works.

  • Amy Bloom

    Dirty Butter

    Iris had never danced with another girl, except to practice.

  • Jackie Thomas-Kennedy

    Kiss

    “I’ll be gone by the time they get here.” I kiss her hand.

  • Kyo Lee

    Why I Have Decided to Live

    2024 High School Writing Contest Winner
    Her hands & the way they cradle my heart.

  • Richard Rodriguez

    American Paradoxes

    I was taught to trust my independence and my individuality.

  • Benjamin Alire Sáenz

    What You Get

    There’s nothing like a flood in the desert.

  • Rebecca Seiferle

    Wild Tongue

    We’re not all lesbians at this bar and grill (not yet).

  • Danez Smith

    Seroconversion

    Two boys are in bed & neither knows the other’s name.

  • Ocean Vuong

    No One Knows the Way to Heaven

    2015 Narrative Prize Winner
    Why are my hands always empty when touching those I love?