I’m forever amazed at the growing popularity of Perking the Pansies across the pond. My inconsequential witterings tell the tale of two middle-aged gay men in a faraway Moslem land written in a peculiarly British carry on style laced with low wit and attempted irony. Let’s face it it’s a minority sport. I’ve published the odd piece about my visits of yesteryear to the Land of the Free but beyond that I can’t see the appeal. So who are you my Yankee pansy fans? Are you mainly expat Brits living in America or genuine Yankee doodle dandies attracted to the semi-gay theme in a fag frat pack sort of way? Does the expat perspective resonate for global nomads wherever they are? Perhaps you just like it because it’s funny or well-observed (or both or neither). Or maybe you’re just waiting for us to be clapped in irons for outraging public morals, or worse (as would happen in some other Moslem countries).
You may have read that I’m writing a book that’s due out at Christmas. God knows I’ve been banging on about it enough. It’s the best of the blog and mixed with the same ingredients but tells our emigrey tale with extra spice and more depth. I doubt it’ll make my fortune but I’d like it to do well. Of course, I’d love it to fly off the shelves. The trouble is I don’t know what American shelves it might fly off from. I’d really like to know why you read my inane and irreverent ramblings. If you have the time and the inclination please leave a comment on this post, add a few words to my Faceache page or drop me a line at:
I’m not fishing for complements (though all will be gratefully received). If you have any marketing tips I’d like to hear about these too.
If you like this then you’ll love these:
Perking the Pansies 
Hello!
Massachusetts being represented here! The shot that started the revolution was fired here (or so they tell me). I am a Boston babe! Born and breed. I do love reading your blog, not only for the whit and quirks, but because it adds a bit of knowledge into my existence. I find it interesting that 2 middle age gay men are living in Turkey with no special attention being paid to them. It talks to me about Turkey as an accepting modern country, unlike the surrounding countries…and unfortunately some Southern States as well.
But I do not read your blog as a reader based on your orientation; I read it because it is funny, interesting and well written.
My family and I are still living in Boston and planning on our move out of here and on to a better life in Turkey.
Thank you for letting us into your world…
Jennifer
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Merhaba Jennifer
Thank you for your thoughtful comment. I really do appreciate it. I visited Boston a few years ago and had a ball. People were friendly, interesting, civilised and welcoming. I’m thinking of doing a post about it. I wish you the very best of luck with you plans to move to Turkey. It’s a wonderful country, yes with its problems like anywhere else but wonderful nonetheless.
Jack
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I’m from Texas (not the most tolerant place in the states) but I enjoy the humor and experiences you are having. Your blog is interesting. That’s why I read it.
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Thank you. I really appreciate you taking the time to comment. I’ve also fancied a visit to the Lone Star State. Maybe one day.
Best wishes
Jack
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Hi Jack,
You have a Seattle-ite in your fan base. Your blog avoids the guide book style writings that most expat blogs face and in short, succinct entries, you’re able to fit a whole humorous story that not only tells us about you, but also about Bodrum.
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Hello Seattle,
Thank you for your lovely comment. It made me blush!
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Okay, you already know I’m American expat living in The Netherlands, but I’m going to add my two cents. What they said. Seriously, Jennifer/Maire/Moe summed it up. None of us would be reading this your blog if it weren’t well written. You mix it up and hit the humor/irony/wit/boredom/excitement/occasional pathos just right.
I’d heard Jo (Jack’s publisher) mention you once or twice and eventually took an occasional gander. But I think it was your article about the hypcritcal violence against gay Turks that pulled me in. Don’t recall how I happened upon it, but you don’t have to be gay or (fill in any blank) to possess empathy and an eye for a well-written piece that reminds us all of the best and worst of human nature. Oh, and you have a way with capturing interesting characters and turn-of-phrase.
Now go get writing. You’re under deadline Mister!
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Thanks Linda….I’m trying but it’s so hot!
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I have been reading your blog since I discovered it 3 months ago. My wife and some of her friends read it too. We don’t have a a specific interest in Turkey (though you make it sound worth a visit). I think your success is down to good quality writing, humor and not being afraid to laugh at yourself and a smart blog design. I don’t usually get around to posting comments on blogs but I hope this is useful.
I’m from Boston originally but now live in LA.with my family. There’s a few of us here waiting for the book to come out! Will it be available on Amazon?
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Really helpful. Thank you. The book should be available on Amazon come Christmas.
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Jack – all i pretty much need to say on this matter of your impending and continued domination of the interesting Turkish blogs market here in the states is “word up Jennifer” – the first poster has it. I too, am from Boston, and I too, read it because it is interesting, poignant and often makes me laugh til the cows come home!!! Elspeth
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Elspeth
That’s so sweet of you to say. Thank you
Jack
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I’m not American but love it all the same, so keep going and stop doubting. If your pansy flasherscope stops flashing you’ll know we’ve got bored and moved on, but that shouldn’t happen any time.
Think of all the smiles you generate all around the planet.
In the words of many an American on TV and also Jo Frost aka Supernanny – Good job!?!
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