I’m dirty, dirty, dirty! Abjeção e identidade queer em Stella Manhattan de Silviano Santiago

This study aims to discuss the construction and representation of possible queer identities in the novel Stella Manhattan. Departing from studies on gender performativity, abjection and voyeurism, the analysis includes some elements that the author uses in the construction of the characters and argues that, despite the novel offering perspectives on identities that challenge heteronormativity, the narrative suggests that these identities are abject. Thus, the study engages with some passages of the book, the possible queer characters, as well as the place of the narrator in the book. The conclusion shows that there are several elements in Stella Manhattan that can lead the reader to infer (homo)phobia regarding such queer identities and that, although suggesting a possible challenge to heteronormativity, the narrative construction ultimately reinforces it.