Torrey Peters, a rising star in the literary world following the success of her debut novel Detransition, Baby, released by One World, an imprint of Random House in 2021, is back with a new and intriguing book titled Stag Dance. The book, set to hit the shelves on March 11, represents a departure from the pressure of groundbreaking representation for transgender authors, as Peters now finds herself among a growing cohort of trans writers gaining recognition in mainstream publishing. In an exclusive interview with PEOPLE, Peters expresses a sense of relief at the changing landscape, with more trans voices being heard in the literary world.
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The freedom to explore her own idiosyncrasies and delve into themes that resonate with her personally rather than feeling the weight of representing an entire community is a liberating experience for Peters in her latest work. Stag Dance is a collection of three short stories and a novel, reflecting Peters’ growth and changing perspectives since her early years in writing. The book includes a mix of previously self-published pieces that showcase Peters’ evolution as a writer and her desire to provoke thought in a more unconventional manner.
Peters draws inspiration for one of the stories in Stag Dance from her personal experiences while constructing a sauna on her Vermont property, immersing herself in the world of lumberjacks and their rugged lifestyle. The novel explores the dynamics of a group of lumberjacks engaged in an illegal logging operation, shedding light on their traditions and relational complexities. Peters delves into the symbolism of gender transition and challenges conventional notions through the lens of characters navigating identity and desire.
In her exploration of the cis-trans binary, Peters introduces stories in Stag Dance that challenge societal norms and push readers to question the constructs of gender and transition. The narratives delve into themes of self-discovery, acceptance, and the universal human experiences that transcend labels or categories. Peters emphasises that while her characters may identify as trans, the essence of their struggles and desires resonates with a broader audience, highlighting the common threads that connect individuals on their journey of self-realisation.
Reflecting on the reception of her previous work, Detransition, Baby, Peters acknowledges the diverse reactions it elicited, including criticism from within the trans community. Despite facing backlash and navigating contentious conversations, Peters remains undeterred in her commitment to amplifying trans voices and narratives. As she forges ahead with Stag Dance, Peters embraces the unconventional and the ‘weird’ in her storytelling, seeking to provoke thought and push boundaries in a positive and empowering way.
Looking towards the future, Peters is determined to continue writing about trans women and advocating for their representation in literature. With a keen eye on fostering a supportive community of writers and storytellers, Peters remains steadfast in her resolve to uplift marginalized voices and challenge discriminatory practices in the publishing industry. As she embarks on this new chapter with Stag Dance, Peters’ dedication to authenticity and pushing artistic boundaries shines through in her unapologetically unique and thought-provoking narrative.
As Torrey Peters releases Stag Dance to a wider audience, her unwavering commitment to telling stories that resonate with authenticity and depth underscores her significance in the literary landscape. Embracing the ‘freaky’ and ‘weird’ elements in her work, Peters invites readers to embark on a literary journey that transcends boundaries and celebrates the richness of diverse voices and experiences. Stag Dance is now available from Random House, inviting readers to explore a world where complexities of identity, desire, and resilience converge in a tapestry of captivating storytelling.