“Kompis”? “Rival”? “Kjæreste”? – eller kanskje bare “homo”? - Om maskuline relasjoner i Mannen som elsket Yngve (2003)

Abstract

This article is an extensive discussion of one of Renberg’s most popular novels; Mannen som elsket Yngve (2003) [trs. The Man who Loved Yngve ]. The primary focus is on the relation between the two comrades, the protagonist Jarle Klepp and his new and fascinating friend Yngve Lima . Defining himself as a normal straight guy, Jarle ventures into a relationship he soon realises is drawn towards erotic feelings and love for his friend. Drawing on Judith Butler and Eve Kosofsky Sedgwick the article explores how Yngve tries to reorient himself and his sexuality while still trying to satisfy his homosocial obligations to male friends and heterosexual expectations towards his girlfriend. A crucial point is the novels negotiations of the schism between “heterosexual” and “homosexual”.