While doing a bit of housecleaning (which included picking out books to donate), I found a copy of Felice Picano's 'Late in the Season.' I do not toss out Felice's books (since most of them are signed!), and was engaged from the first page to re-read this intimate novel of a gay man's friendship with a young woman in the early 1970s.The Fire Island beach community is making its exodus as summer ends, including composer Jonathan's lover Daniel (who's off the London to direct a series of films). Hoping to enjoy time alone to compose a new musical, Jonathan is surprised to encounter Stevie (Stephanie), the young daughter of his wealthy island home neighbors. Her panic attack during a fierce rainstorm leads her to take shelter with him.What transpires defies most gay literary conventions, yet the prolific Picano manages to include lush details of the flora and fauna, rich descriptions of the thoughts, physicality and desires of his characters, and a real sense of intimacy. The clever insertion of opera and folklore references weave into the story nicely.So many new writers think they need speed, action, and they fear in-depth descriptions in their prose. 'Late in the Season' provided some great unintentional homework by example; how to be emotionally and descriptively expansive while remaining true to an intimate story.
