Eroticism & Queer Attraction A Grounded Theory

This study unraveled the degree of eroticism and queer attraction in 41 selected Bicol Lyric Poetry. The researchers used the Grounded Theory Method (GTM) and integrated the Queer Theory and Psychoanalytic approach in the textual analysis of selected Bicol lyric poetry in an attempt to explain the degree of eroticism and queer attraction of Bicolanos. The Analyses of the researchers were validated through the participants of the study which included 10 binary genders, 10 male homosexuals, 10 lesbians and 10 experts in the field of Bicol literature. The researchers identified four degrees of eroticism and named it: Tikwil, Girok, Kagat and Siram (Bicol terms which mean poke, tickle, bite, and euphoria). Significant findings of the study revealed that homosexuals, bisexuals and lesbians exist in Bicol lyric poetry, and Bicolanos, as seen on their lyric poetry, fell under the degree of Kagat, where people engage into sexual activities for physical gratification. In addition, queer Bicolanos, as seen on their lyric poetry, driven by strong physical attraction, give in into sexual encounters even with different sexual partners. This study recommended that future studies should explore a wider range of Bicol literature other than lyric poetry and investigate on the presence of queer characters, the roles they project, and dig deeper on the acceptance or condemnation of these queer identities in the society as a whole.

Keywords – Degree of Eroticism, Queer Perspectives, Bicol Literature