For Stage Addict -
The dictionary defines camp as, " n. 1.An affectation or appreciation of manners and tastes commonly thought to be artificial, vulgar, or banal.
2.Banality, vulgarity, or artificiality when deliberately affected or when appreciated for its humor: 'Camp is popularity plus vulgarity plus innocence”'(Indra Jahalani).
adj.
Having deliberately artificial, vulgar, banal, or affectedly humorous qualities or style: played up the silliness of their roles for camp effect. "
See also Sontag, Susan - "Notes on Camp." "A sensibility that revels in artifice, stylization, theatricalization, irony, playfulness, and exaggeration rather than content."
While not strictly limited to the gays, there is a distinctly gay sensibility to much camp.
Susan Sontag - "Notes on Camp"
"How do you like THAT 'misanthropic panache,' Mr. Goldstone?" - PalJoey
Updated On: 1/4/06 at 10:16 PM