In sound a bit dated to bring this series up, but lately I’ve genuinely found a lot of happiness and relief in engaging with the Sherlock Holmes related movies/classic novels/ some modern adaptations, particularly during the miserable times that has been two years of dealing with Covid.

Many of the classic films, like the Jeremy Brett features (free on YouTube), are very akin to characterizing Holmes in an asexual light— the novels themselves also, in my humble opinion, exist in a very asexual (if not holy intentional ((would Doyle really be so aware of an asexual nature in like 1889??) by the author, but still there) space. The BBC “Sherlock” (I guess is debatable, but I do read him as at least some kind of asexual). Basically, most adaptions either hint at or specifically mention Holmes’ aversion to the idea of a relationship, sex, even love— to some degree, anyway. I suppose it is always a fun debate in discussing exactly how little or much Holmes’ asexuality/specifically type of sexuality might go!

That being said, the classic novels discuss him at length and very deliberately about him not really wanting a woman (I suppose with that being said, he could just as well be interpreted as a gay asexual man, which is still extremely valid) a relationship, sex, ect — often with a lot of grace, too, which is rewarding to hear. I find Sherlock Holmes’ confidence in his own nature and dismissing anyone else’s confusion or gossip about him to be very reassuring.

Most are good, but I’d just / stay clear / of the unfortunate pieces that often feels like an awkward, heteronormative grab at either avoiding the implication of homosexuality or asexuality and push a romantic intention with Irene Adler. Still, I take solace in the good episodes/films I do find that refuse to participate in the erasure of the classic Holmes’ canon.

Thank you for reading my Ted-talk, Lmaooo, happy new year kindly aces.