TL;DR
- Vernal Thaw explores toxic queer monogamy.
- The novel flips the polyamory narrative.
- Franky compromises her polyamorous lifestyle for Vera.
- Monogamy becomes a source of control.
- Cannon’s work challenges relationship norms.
In a world where love can be as complex as a Rubik’s Cube, Frances Cannon’s new novel Vernal Thaw dives headfirst into the murky waters of toxic queer relationships. Forget the usual tales of polyamory opening up; this time, we’re flipping the script and asking—what happens when a polyamorous person decides to shut off their other connections? Buckle up, darling, because this is not your typical love story.
Meet Franky, a young adjunct professor with a past as tangled as her love life. Haunted by encounters with violent men and a history that’s anything but straightforward, she finds herself in a whirlwind romance with Vera, an older neurosurgeon shaped by her own traumatic past in homophobic Soviet-era Ukraine. But here’s the kicker: while Franky thrives in her polyamorous lifestyle, Vera is a staunch monogamist. Talk about a recipe for drama!
As Franky grapples with her feelings, she makes the monumental decision to cut ties with her other partners to fully commit to Vera. “When I tell Vera that I broke it off with Jacob and Ava, she simply smiles and says matter-of-factly, ‘Good.’” But don’t let that smile fool you; this decision weighs heavily on Franky. It’s a classic case of love versus self, and the stakes couldn’t be higher.
Cannon’s narrative is a masterclass in exploring the emotional turmoil that comes with such compromises. As Franky navigates her new monogamous life, she begins to question everything: Is monogamy truly simpler, or is it just another form of control? The book challenges the stigma surrounding polyamory and asks if monogamous relationships can be just as toxic.
As the story unfolds, Franky’s relationship with Vera becomes increasingly unhealthy, revealing how monogamy can morph into a controlling force. “It’s not only just that [Vera] prefers monogamy. It’s that she wants Franky to change to suit her needs,” Cannon explains. This dynamic raises important questions about the nature of love and the compromises we make in the name of it.
Cannon’s own experiences seep into the pages of Vernal Thaw, making it a poignant piece of autofiction. “I was perhaps just going to write a personal essay, or maybe some form of autobiography. That began over six years ago,” she shares. What started as a reflection on her life has morphed into a rich narrative that blends romance, drama, and a touch of thriller.
As readers, we’re left to ponder the complexities of our own relationships. How do we navigate the murky waters of love, especially when societal norms dictate what is ‘normal’? Cannon’s work pushes us to question our definitions of love and intimacy, reminding us that healthy relationships are built on honesty, trust, and communication, not just the structure we choose.
In a world where queer relationships often have to forge their own paths, Vernal Thaw serves as a crucial reminder: sometimes, the most profound lessons about love come from the most toxic experiences. So, whether you’re a polyamorous pro or a monogamy maven, Cannon’s tale is sure to resonate. Grab your copy and dive into the complexities of queer love—it’s a wild ride you won’t want to miss.
https://www.youtube.com/user/autostraddle