What are the common themes in queer ghost stories?

Answer 1

A theme that frequently appears is that of hidden or secret identities. In many queer ghost stories, the characters had to hide their true selves when they were alive. As ghosts, their secrets are sometimes revealed, either to themselves or to others. This can create a sense of mystery and a driving force for the plot. Additionally, the theme of revenge can be present. If a queer person was wronged in life because of their identity, as a ghost they may seek revenge on those who persecuted them, adding an element of horror and justice to the story.

Answer 2

Isolation is also a theme. Just as queer people may have felt isolated in life, queer ghosts are often depicted as being alone or separated from the living world in a particular way. They might be stuck in a haunted place, unable to move on because of their queer identity or the nature of their relationships. It's like their queerness has made them outsiders even in the afterlife. Another theme is the blurring of boundaries, both in terms of gender and the physical world. Queer ghosts may not conform to traditional gender roles, and they can also cross boundaries between the living and the dead in unique ways that straight - identified ghosts might not in typical ghost stories.