History telling in British universities seems still to require the establishment of a trans-historical subject to talk about. This often runs counter to the anti-essentialist, identity deconstructing project of queer theory. And equally - through the very sustenance of trans-historical queer theorizing itself - often gives rise to a sort of politically divorced and self-contained subject. There seem to be the tensions of 'a-politicality' here. Maybe the narrator of whichever particular narrative construction is going on could come forward. That being said, Matt Cook was a fine and friendly entertainer and packed in loads of historical information, with a density and delight which seems to be lacking in TV documentaries these days! A gay raconteur of social history, he gladly engaged with the audience after his presentation - which had lots of funny slides :) A good night out.

Fascinating talk, and great to see so many people! Completely full house.

Matt Cook gave an excellent talk, to a full house.