In the heart of Berlin, Israeli poet and translator Dory Manor reflects on his journey from a childhood overshadowed by secrecy to a life of queer liberation and literary expression. His memoir, The Gorillapublished by Éditions Grasset, delves into the complexities of family secrets, the discovery of homosexuality, and the struggle to break free from traditional masculinity.
Manor’s story begins in Tel Aviv, where he grew up under the watchful eye of his father, a charismatic yet overwhelming figure who served as a bodyguard to high-ranking Israeli officials. The family’s culture of secrecy permeated every aspect of their lives, creating an environment where feelings were suppressed, and emotions were scarce. For Manor, this upbringing was a poison that he has spent a lifetime trying to understand and overcome.
The Gorilla: A Memoir of Family and Emancipation
The Gorilla is more than just a memoir; it is a testament to Manor’s journey of self-discovery and emancipation. Growing up in an environment dominated by the codes of masculinity, Manor found solace and escape in French literature. Inspired by a remarkable professor, he immersed himself in the works of Baudelaire, Apollinaire, and Rimbaud, translating each word and phrase to understand their depth.
This love for French literature became a lifeline for Manor, offering him an alternative identity that transcended the boundaries imposed by his family and society. Over the years, he translated French literature into Hebrew, turning his passion into a profession that spanned two decades. The French language, with its rich literary heritage, provided Manor with a sense of belonging and a means to express his true self.
From Tel Aviv to Berlin: A Political and Personal Exodus
Manor’s journey is not just one of personal emancipation but also of political exile. In 2019, he left Israel for Berlin, a decision driven by the country’s shifting political landscape and his personal experiences. As an openly gay man and a vocal critic of Israeli policies, Manor faced censorship and professional setbacks. The growing right-wing sentiment and open racism in Israel made it increasingly difficult for him to stay.
Berlin, with its vibrant queer culture and progressive values, offered Manor a new beginning. The city’s acceptance of diverse identities and its strong support for families, including homoparental ones, provided a nurturing environment for him and his partner. Today, Manor lives in Berlin with his partner and their one-year-old daughter, embracing a life that is both personally fulfilling and politically aligned with his beliefs.
The Complexity of Israeli Society and the Pinkwashing Debate
Manor’s memoir also sheds light on the complexities of Israeli society, particularly the evolution of LGBT rights in Tel Aviv. From the mid-1990s onwards, Tel Aviv transformed into a queer-friendly city, with visible gay and lesbian communities, annual Pride parades, and openly homosexual artists and writers. However, this progressive image is not without its controversies.
The concept of pinkwashing—using the image of a tolerant and modern society to mask less palatable realities—has been a subject of debate. Manor argues that while Tel Aviv’s queer-friendly image is genuine, it has been exploited to divert attention from the discrimination faced by Palestinians, trans individuals, refugees, and foreign workers. This duality highlights the complexities of Israeli society and the challenges of achieving true equality.
The Power of Literature and Translation
For Manor, literature and translation have been powerful tools for self-expression and emancipation. His journey from a troubled adolescent to a celebrated poet and translator is a testament to the transformative power of language. Through his work, Manor has not only found his voice but also created a space for others to explore their identities and experiences.
As he continues to live and work in Berlin, Manor remains deeply connected to his literary roots. His memoir, The Gorilla, is a poignant exploration of identity, exile, and the search for belonging. It is a story that resonates with anyone who has ever struggled to find their place in the world.
