This is an unconventional memoir, beautifully written with an unexpected touch that will surprise and even delight the reader.
Douglas Wright was one of the pioneers of contemporary dance in New Zealand and can now be revealed to be a superb writer as well. In this book he writes about growing up gay in a provincial New Zealand community, becoming a dancer (he didn't start until he was 19), and moving from ballet to contemporary dance. Working in New York with the famous Paul Taylor Dance Company and becoming one of its stars, gay relationships across the international arts scene, performing with the Limbs company in Auckland, drug and alcohol abuse and periods of ugly personal decline. Contracting HIV-AIDS, a long-time close relationship with Janet Frame (the chapter on Frame is extraordinary, as good as anything from Michael King), searching for inspiration in his spiritual life (there's a fascinating account of going on a ten-day meditation retreat where the rule is total silence for the duration).
Part memoir, part love story, this is beautiful, articulate and memorable writing, with lovely descriptive touches and real creative and intellectual depth.
