In a dynamic addition to South Africa’s ever-growing LGBTQ+ literature, author Jennis Williamson prepares to unveil his latest work, Directions to Gay Town: The Rainbow Roadmap, set to be released on 1 December.
Building on the success of his previous self-help guide, Williamson intertwines humour and authenticity to engage readers while addressing significant themes and challenges within the vibrant LGBTQ+ community.
Williamson’s new book takes an exhilarating journey through the myriad experiences faced by individuals in the LGBTQ+ realm. Tackling topics from the societal pressures of “coming out” to the unpredictable nature of online dating, Directions to Gay Town promises to resonate with those seeking their path to authenticity.
In a landscape frequently dominated by international perspectives, Williamson’s work presents a unique South African voice. His personal experiences serve as the foundation for a narrative that not only highlights his journey of self-discovery but also addresses broader themes of faith, love, and resilience that can resonate universally. Williamson’s candid reflections invite readers of all backgrounds, not just those within the LGBTQ+ sphere, to engage with the complexities of modern life.
The dad of one told the Weekend Argus: “This book came from my own missteps, heartbreaks, and the lessons I wish someone had shared with me years back. If I’d known then what I know now, I could’ve avoided so much unnecessary heartache and awkwardness. Looking back, I realise those moments – every twist, every stumble, every tear, every suicidal thought, and every homophobic slur I had to endure, were necessary to help me embrace who I truly am. Writing this book was like creating a roadmap for the journey I’ve been on, not just for myself but for anyone who feels lost or scared to take the first step… see it as a starter pack for being your authentic gay self.”
Growing up in a conservative environment in Bloemfontein, he faced harsh realities and internal struggles tinged with slurs like “Moffie.”
However, a life-changing move to Gauteng opened doors to his first LGBTQ relationship and allowed him to fully embrace his identity.
He touches on one of the focus points in the book around “coming out”. He explains: “Coming out! It feels like throwing a surprise party for yourself – except the “surprise” is your identity, and you’re not sure how people are going to react.
“Sometimes it’s funny, like when my dad caught me and a friend in the bath and made me promise I wasn’t gay. Telling him I wasn’t, is one of the biggest mistakes of my life. A few years later, I introduced my “boyfriend” at a Sunday family lunch, and the silence was deafening. That silence, though, taught me something valuable: the family I chose, the people who loved and accepted me for who I am, meant more than anything I could’ve imagined.”
“Coming out, while brave, shouldn’t be necessary anymore. Imagine if straight people had to announce their orientation. ‘Mom, Dad, I’m straight!’ It’s laughable, but for us, it’s still a reality. My hope is that one day, being yourself won’t require a press conference.
“Let us not forget the true meaning of the quote ‘blood is thicker than water’ actually being ‘the blood of the covenant is thicker than the Water of the Womb’ - the people who accept you is the true bond that helps you live in authenticity.”
Williamson describes the book as one that “extends beyond a collection of anecdotes; it stands as a compelling call to challenge societal norms and embrace personal truths. Readers embarking on the metaphorical rainbow road will discover sections that explore elements such as Coming Out, Faith and Identity, Homophobia, Online Dating Adventures and LGBTQ+ Legalities”.
Readers can expect to embark on a vibrant journey filled with laughter, courage, and invaluable insights when Williamson’s latest offering is released this December.
With Directions to Gay Town, he seeks to redefine self-understanding and acceptance within the colourful tapestry of South African life.
The book is set to launch on 1 December on Amazon.com and Shopify.