The intersection of romance novels and politics is explored in an authors’ panel Thursday at Harvard Square’s Lovestruck Books, an independent bookstore devoted to the genre. “All of our morals are tied up into our relationships,” said Riley Mulroy, events manager at Lovestruck, talking about the “Power, Passion and Politics of Romance” panel.
Participants Nikki Payne, Jess Hardy, Kate Canterbary and Namrata Patel are authors who bring a mix of perspectives to their novels, including dual-cultural identity in Patel’s novels and classics-inspired cultural commentary in Payne’s “Pride and Protest.” Lovestruck hopes the event will highlight how the genre explores sex and relationships – “Romance as a genre has been considered incredibly feminine, and in our patriarchal society, feminine is seen as bad,” Mulroy said – but also its political and social importance. Lovestruck co-founder Rachel Kanter believes that community gatherings such the bookstore’s panels are a method of finding community, empowerment and a voice through a field that generally promotes progressive ideas. It’s “romance as a convener,” Kanter said Saturday.
“All of the authors are very passionate, especially given the current administration, that we are giving power to romance readers,” Mulroy said. “Sex is power, and romance has been stigmatized for so long that we are all very passionate in this industry about making sure that everyone has a voice and a say.”
“Power, Passion and Politics Panel: Writers talk Romance” with Kennedy Elsey is 6 to 8 p.m. Thursday. Tickets are $23 to $32 including one of four books, one by each author.
A stronger
Please consider making a financial contribution to maintain, expand and improve Cambridge Day.
We are now a 501(c)3 nonprofit and all donations are tax deductible.
Please consider a recurring contribution.