Aldrich "Walks Alone"

The debate on Ann Aldrich's controversial book, "We Walk Alone" (Fawcett Publications, 1955) during the May public discussion turned into a one-sided affair, the contention being that for all Miss Aldrich's good intentions she did not achieve her purpose and failed to balance her more bizarre examples of Lesbianism with those who have attained adjustment and are useful, productive citizens in today's society.

In upholding the book, Del Martin pointed out that all too many homophile readers were looking for "affirmation" rather than information or a well-rounded picture of Lesbianism, that a true picture must include the negative aspects. She also cited the difficulties encountered in commercial publishing and that most firms demand a pattern that does not condone. The proverbial "unhappy ending", as has been pointed out by many authors who have worked with the homo sexual theme, is not necessarily in the original copy.

Helen Sanders criticized the author for having lived, as she admits, in "gay life" for 15 years and failing to seek the "cure" she believes possiblè since she so obviously hates and resents her lot. Miss Sanders also took exception to the title of the book, stating that the isolation and loneliness of the homo sexual has been highly exaggerated.

"It is ridiculous to imply that because one is a Lesbian one feels lonely or rejected or lost." She added, "Very many Lesbians live full and rich lives.

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Miss Martin quoted from "We Walk Alone" where the author says, "There is no stereotype in the over-all picture of the Lesbian. This is the first discovery I ever made about the group of which I am a member".

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