Outward: Slate's LGBTQ podcast

Are Advice Columns Intrinsically Queer?

Apr 19, 2023
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INSIGHT

Frog and Toad's Queer Subtext

  • Frog and Toad's relationship is widely interpreted as a quietly queer love story, reflecting their creator Arnold Lobel's own identity.
  • Their deep emotional bond offers a subversive and affirming portrayal of gay companionship in children's literature.
INSIGHT

Queer Representation Beyond Labels

  • Meaning in queer representation isn't always literal identification with characters.
  • Stories like Frog and Toad provide an aesthetic interiority that supports resilience without explicit naming.
INSIGHT

Bert and Ernie's Queer Coding

  • Bert and Ernie represent a neurotic roommate dynamic rather than a celebratory queer relationship.
  • Their gay coding reflects cultural homophobia and devalues platonic male emotional intimacy.
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