Mark Twain was a prominent author during the 19th century, known for his famous works such as The Adventures of Tom Sawyer and A Connecticut Yankee in King Arthur’s Court. As well as being an acclaimed writer, Twain was a public figure, often seen speaking his mind on social issues and controversies. This stirred much speculation as to his actual feelings and sexual orientation, speculating whether Twain may have been something other than a straight male.
Perspectives from Experts
There are no openly acknowledged claims from either Mark Twain himself or from close friends or family members with regards to his sexuality. Despite this lack of confirmation, remarks made by his biographers have sparked conversation and debate. According to scholar Juliet Watts, she believes that he was likely bisexual. She’s argued that his numerous romantic relationships with women were likely pursued as a means of avoiding his true feelings for men. Stephen J. Ross, another Twain scholar, notes that there are mentions of an intense and close relationship between Twain and a mysterious young male writer, although it never amounted to anything concrete.
Data and Analysis
The argument for Twain being gay has been further supported by experts and fans alike who have taken a closer look at his works. While multiple characters in his work are portrayed in a very progressive light, many claim that some passages within his books seem to hold a different meaning with him being gay. Observations of his ironic, dark humor, combined with his heavy satire and criticism in his writing, are seen differently when combined with the idea of him expressing repressed homophobia.
Adding to the existing evidence, a letter sent to Twain by his brother back in 1868 was discovered in the late 20th century. It supported the possibility of him being attracted to men, as his brother wrote “that aversion to females that you spoke of… I know exactly how you feel”.
Insights and Analysis
Regardless of the strong arguments put forward, a definitive answer to the question of whether or not Twain was gay still eludes us. His letters, his commentary on social issues, and his works all harbor hints that suggest something else entirely, leaving us to only speculate and make our own connections with just minimal evidence.
It’s indisputable that he was a complex and passionate man, often speaking for minority rights, causes, and inclinations he believed were underrepresented and unrecognised. His exact orientations and identity, however, is an innermost secret of Twain’s life that is most likely to remain obscured forever.
Attitude
Though there is no clear consensus on Twain’s sexual orientation, it’s evident that if he was indeed gay, this likely contributed to the inner isolation he experienced as an individual. Despite this, it’s clear that he was an outspoken and determined advocate of love, friendship, and intimacy. In his work, he encourages acceptance, nonconformity, independence, and a willingness to explore feelings of friendship and love, without prejudice or judgement.
A great example of such a message is present in ‘The Mysterious Stranger’: “Love conceiveth no malice, and without malice can never die”. This quote reflects his unwavering belief in genuine love and companionship regardless of gender or race.
Political Thinking
Twain had always been an assertive field commander in the fight against racism and oppression of minorities. His trilogy on the subject ‘The Adventures of Huckleberry Finn,’ ‘Adventures of Tom Sawyer’ and ‘Puddinhead Wilson’ were all firmly-grounded in his progressive thoughts on the subject.
Twain had a clear view of the situation of his times and dared to speak openly about it without any fear. His approach and thinking of that period can still be seen in many of his sentences, such as: “Whenever you find yourself on the side of the majority, it is time to pause and reflect”.
Style of Writing
Research shows that Mark Twain was intense and passionate about his writing style and method. He specifically used old fashioned speech when creating his tales and wrote in great detail, giving vivid descriptions of characters and locations.
He often used irony and satire as a tool for getting across his message, which made his works noted for their firm and yet jestful tone. His iconic book, The Adventures of Huckleberry Finn for example, takes a heavy moral stand against racism and hypocrisy, with the author’s subtle humorous undertone and clever use of language.
Personality Traits
During his lifetime, Mark Twain was known as an affable and well-traveled gentleman, regularly using friendships with prominent figures of his time, such as Robert E.Lee, as a platform to spread his progressive messages and philosophy.
Twain also had a habit of befriending and helping out complete strangers too, as he often spoke of finding distinction in everyone he came across. His understanding and empathy can be seen in his subtle humour and easy-going banter style.
Confirmations of Sexuality
While there was never a public declaration of his sexual orientation, many of Twain’s undiscovered works contain hints that suggest his preference leaned towards same sex partners.
One example is a memoir of a New Orleans man that Twain knew in the 1880s. Bessie Louise Pierce, a professor at University of Chicago, maintains that Mark Twain wrote a very detailed letter about the man, referring to him in intimate terms that suggests he was romantically and emotionally drawn to the man.
The lack of clear evidence makes the process of confirming whether Mark Twain was indeed gay an arduous one that requires a more thorough study of his life and works. Nevertheless, the signs suggest that he had quite an enlightened view of matters related to sexuality, as well as deeply progressive thinking that positively contributed to the emancipation of minorities and the fight against intolerance.
