In "When the Tides Held the Moon," Benny, a queer Boricuan blacksmith in early 20th century New York, finds a secret job crafting a tank for a kidnapped merman, Río. Their bond epitomizes Benny's struggle with identity as a Puerto Rican migrant navigating two worlds. The story highlights the challenges of self-actualization amidst societal norms, showcasing the beauty of queer identities. Author Kelley drew inspiration from merfolk conventions, reflecting themes of conservation and resistance to patriarchy while embracing the community's vibrant culture and interactions.
Benny recognizes in Río the same duality that he feels, a biological expression of his feelings. Each lives neither here nor there, neither this nor that.
There's something anticapitalist about the business of being a merperson: it's resistant to patriarchal norms, and the men are showing their strength with a graceful, majestic presentation.
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