by Christopher Summers

As I sat in a local straight bar finishing off my second Long Island, listening to a little hip-hop and R&B, I could not help but notice the behavior of the men and women around me as they flirted with one another. I watched the smiles and body movements of both sexes as they seductively laughed and talked to each other. Then, to my surprise, I found some of the guys sneaking in a look to a guy passing by in the same way that they were looking at the females they were chatting with. At first I thought it was just me being a gay male in a straight bar, so I dismissed it as being paranoid.

By this time, my fourth Long Island kicked in, so I made my way to the dance floor to dance by myself as I usually do. While dancing, I noticed some guys looking at me and smiling. At first I paid no attention, but once in a while I watched as guys stood closer and closer to me, as if they were dancing with me. Some would even come up and make comments, suggesting we should hang out, all while having that same flirty look on their faces they had when they were talking to the females. My first thought was, Why? I do not know you and you do not know me. This behavior intrigued me but at the same time disgusted me---why play the straight role?

I have reflected on this myself and with many people around me, and I have found many reasons why guys play the straight role. The first and foremost is that it's just plain easier to say you are straight lest questions are asked. It cuts down on the uncomfortable and awkward moments. It's not a topic of conversation and jokes. You are not constantly defending yourself as a man.

Also, many guys play the role to get ahead in corporate America. Let's face it---it is not always easy to get your career off the ground or move ahead if you come out and admit you are gay. Being straight implies you are strong, powerful, good at handling a crisis, not emotional, and able to handle stress well. Look at the athletes, no matter what the sport is—none of them admit they are gay or that they have any gay friends. This is also true for singers, rappers, actors, and politicians. Coming out could hurt or hinder your career.

Finally, some guys just enjoy both genders. They are comfortable with both females and males---it feels right to them. They do not believe in putting a label on it. Why do you have to be gay or straight? They want their cake and to eat it, too.

However, choosing to play the role can be dangerous. It can cause a lot of pain to everyone involved. It is only good for the person who is playing the role. He is selfish and greedy thinking only of himself. It's okay only if everyone involved knows and agrees to be a willing participant; both females and males should know about each other.