Interview with Tim Bergling, Author of Reeling in the Years

Older Gay Men and Aging

I had an idea about doing an article called" Women and gay men: aging being the common denominator. "In both cases, aging affects how women and older gay men see themselves and how others see them. Doing some research on the subject, I came across a book titled "Reeling in the Years," by Tim Bergling. Figuring he would know more about gay men and aging then me, I contacted him, and he agreed to a brief interview. Here it is.

Could you talk a little about your book "Reeling in the Years," about being an aging gay man? Also, a bit about your background.

Tim B-My book attempts to talk about how gay men of all ages deal with the phenomenon of age, how our experience as gay men evolves over time, how the various generations of gay men deal -- or refuse to deal -- with each other.

About me: I'm a former US Marine, journalist, and television news producer...see www.timbergling.com for details, or www.myspace.com/timbergling

How long were you a Marine? What was the experience like for you?

Tim B-I was a Marine for about 8 years, the experience was deeply satisfying and rewarding, I was very proud to serve.

Everybody feels anxious, nervous, worried, and looks back on their life, sometimes with regret, as they age, how is it so different for gay men? Or is it?

Tim B-Large aspects of the gay community tend to put a tremendous, and some would say, unwarranted, value of youth, staying young, or at least, appearing young. While not universal by any means it is widespread within the community, so the "normal" fears about aging that everyone experiences tend to be exaggerated.

I was going to do an article on "Older Women and Older Gay Men: Aging the Common Denominator?" The premise being, that what an aging women face- losing her attractiveness to the opposite sex- is what a lot of gay men must face. Do you agree with this premise? If not, why? If so, why?