A review by catdad77a45
After the Blue Hour, by John Rechy

4.0

I read quite a few of Rechy's early semi-autobiographical works (his classic 'City of Night', 'Numbers', 'Rushes' and 'The Sexual Outlaw') back in the early 70's, and was somewhat surprised to learn he's not only still alive (he's almost 86, despite an incorrect birthdate on GR!), but still publishing controversial work. He bills this as a 'true fiction', and indeed, the narrator is a young 24 year old writer/hustler named .... John Rechy! Supposing, then, that this is based on an actual incident lends the story even more intrigue, and if it weren't for the sexually graphic climax (no pun intended!), would make an excellent film in the right hands. Short and concentrated, the book gains power as it goes along - but one thing that drove me crazy is the affectation that both Paul and John call each other 'man' incessantly, which although a 60's 'thing', gives their dialogue a slightly camp and fusty air.