32 Variations on a Theme by Basil II in the Key of Washington, DC

Gridlock between Congressional Republicans and President Clinton closes the government, casting thousands of workers and dependents adrift for an uncertain Christmas. City services have collapsed, leaving trash in heaps, potholes everywhere, and AIDs patients empty handed. How do people in DC cope? Set in Washington at the end of 1995, 32 Variations on a Theme by Basil II depicts the tribulations, interactions, successes, and disappointments of a group of friends during this time of political and cultural ferment. In snappy, fast-paced dialogue, the narration tells five intersecting stories, highlighting DC manners at its manicured best and trashy worst. Does Basil finally get over his breakup and meet his perfect man? Will Mimosa succumb to the allure of yet another suave, Dutch gentleman? Can Randy summon the courage to leave Don in Philadelphia and return to his DC calling? Will Henri ever realize that the closeted, arch-conservative Edvard does not share Henri’s passion? In answering these questions, the Basil Variations poignantly draws parallels between the government collapse and the many dysfunctions in Washington’s gay community, such as narcissism, gender and racial segregation, social conformance, and self-homophobia. At the same time, it highlights Washington’s prolific cultural amenities, vibrant neighborhoods, and deep seated civic pride that ultimately survives the turmoil and forms the kernal for future rebirth. In writing the Basil Variations, author Louis Harris adopts a literary form never before the theme and variations found in Classical Music. The story lines support a central theme, which weaves in and out through the action and dialogue, much the same way musical ideas do in variations composed by Brahms or Beethoven. As in music, tension in the story undulates, with mini-climaxes occurring at deliberate, proportionate intervals, with the biggest climax saved for the end.