A New Gay Image Type Created through Narrative Voice in the Novel ‘Lost in the Woods’

Abstract

          This article was aimed at analyzing the role of narrative voice in creating gay character images in the novel Ridu Long Pa (‘Lost in the Woods’), authored by ‘theneoclassic.’ The analysis found that the narrative voice used most frequently was characterized by a bright, cheerful tone representing joy and fulfilled hopes and was used in the construction of the nai ek character. Meanwhile, a darker, more discreet, serious, and determined tone of voice was used to construct the character of the pra ek. These two narrative voices led to 2 gay character image types: 1) the ‘New Generation Gay’ image, represented in characters that feature a nice appearance and personality, as well as a high social status, and 2) the ‘Traditional Gay’ image, which can be observed in characters with external or physical characteristics that validate their idyllic masculinity, including a relatively taller or larger, more portly build, a wider chest and thicker back, a more muscular physique, and facial hair that makes the character look more formidable. Characters representing the ‘Traditional Gay’ image also show leadership qualities and are strong, determined, courageous, and reliable.
          The analysis showed that narrative voice in the novel Ridu Long Pa played a role in constructing gay characters that represent a new gay image type, manifested in joyful gay characters who feel their hopes have been fulfilled. They are accepted within their family and by the people around them. For this reason, the narrative voice that appears most frequently in the novel uses a joyful and bright tone.