Back to News
CultureU.S.

Marlon James explores how homophobia shaped life in Jamaica in 'The Disappearers'

Drake Magazine News Desk · Sep 23, 2026 · 6:20 PM ET

Drake Magazine News

Culture · No licensed photograph available for this report

The Brief

Marlon James's novel, "The Disappearers," delves into the challenges faced by gay men in Jamaica during the 1980s and 90s. The work, which was shortlisted for the Booker Prize, explores themes of survival within a homophobic society.

Key Verified Facts

  • Marlon James's "The Disappearers" was a Booker Prize shortlister.
  • The novel depicts gay men navigating Jamaican homophobia in the 1980s and 90s.
  • The book is described as raw, violent, and sexually explicit, yet also witty and humorous.

Sources: PBS NewsHour. Drake Magazine wrote this brief in its own words from the facts reported by the sources named above.

Published Sep 23, 2026 · 6:20 PM ET · Last verified Sep 23, 2026 · 11:05 PM ET

Back to News

More from Drake Magazine

View all news