In this series, I attempt to trouble this heteronormative notion of Jamaican masculinity through an exploration of male bonding, set against the background of an inner-city, intergenerational relationship. In my experience of male bonding, Jamaican men are oftentimes pressured to conform to hegemonic ideals of masculinity, personifying strength while being devoid of vulnerability and intimacy. This series attempts to deconstruct those conceptions and expand the conversation of approved behaviors for men in displaying love, support, and intimacy. Man Up shows us male bonding as many of us conventionally know it—an afternoon of liming with the boys, smoking, talking, and enjoying each other.

Examining my own experiences of friendship and support, I often reflect on what this meant to me and how it manifested itself. What were the ways I felt connected to another man? What was so important about this connection? And finally, what did it look like? As I dwelled on this connection, I recognized it as a process of bonding. Bonding for me meant company, entertainment, discovery, support, guidance, love, vulnerability, and intimacy. Talking to other men about their relationships with friends and mentors, intimacy was not a word that ever came up. No matter their experiences of support, displays of emotions, sharing needs, or any form of softness which may have indications of vulnerability, none of them saw it through the lens of intimacy.

The complete overview of Marlon James’ featured work can be found in the Kingston Biennial 2022: Pressure Catalogue, which is available for sale in the NGJ Gift Shop.