Description
Book SynopsisMelissa Hackman traces the experiences of Pentecostal ex-gay men in Cape Town, South Africa, as they attempted to cure their homosexuality, forge a heterosexual masculinity, and enter into heterosexual marriage through various forms emotional, bodily, and religious work.
Trade Review"Truly unique and fascinating ...
Desire Work sheds new light on Africa. . . . Recommended. Graduate students, researchers, and professionals." -- W. Arens * Choice *
"
Desire Work is a remarkably rich, detailed, and passionate ethnography. . . . As gender studies in Africa continues to grow as a field, this book provides a needed contribution to understanding homosexuality and masculinity among . . . men in the first country in the world whose constitution outlawed homophobic discrimination: South Africa." -- Dianna Bell * Journal of Religion in Africa *
"
Desire Work is a rich and fascinating ethnographic study worth reading by anyone with an academic interest in gender, sexuality, and self-making in evangelical and Pentecostal Christian circles." -- Adriaan van Klinken * H-Africa, H-Net Reviews *
"There is no doubt that
Desire Work is an important book, offering the reader glimpses into the wider body of work on the subject. It is written in an accessible, engaging, and compassionate style, and makes a contribution to the field of gender and sexuality studies as well as opening up new avenues for theological exploration." -- Beverley Haddad * Anthropological Forum *
"The book presents an honest and refreshing account of the methodological challenges of conducting such research. ... [It] will be useful specifically to those wanting to understand the ex-gay movement and Pentecostalism as well as to those interested in the intersection of sexuality, gender, and nationality." -- Alex Toft * American Journal of Sociology *
“
Desire Work emerges as a genuine and serious description of the challenges and struggles of South African men who must navigate the overlapping layers of societal, cultural, and religious demands as they seek a pathway that allows for faithful, authentic expression of masculinity and sexuality….
Desire Work is strongly recommended to mental health professionals, pastoral theologians, pastor caregivers and other ministry practitioners as a cautionary tale and guidepost, calling for careful consideration and reflection when engaging in the sacred task of transforming and changing lives.” -- Eddie L. Journey * Pneuma *
Table of ContentsPreface ix
Acknowledgments xv
Introduction: Adrian's Desire Work 1
1. Cultural Convergences 39
2. Building Godly Emotional Intimacy 63
3. Becoming Spiritual Warriors: Learning How to Fight Demonic Sexual Desires 87
4. Mastering Romance and Sexual Feelings 115
5. "I Didn't Fall, I'm Free": Leaving Healing Revelation Ministries 139
Afterword 165
Notes 171
References 177
Index 197
