ABSTRACT
In this concluding chapter, the poly gaze and poly lives are situated within the contemporary context of U.S. politics and cultural discourse. Specifically, it is argued that a poly gaze is more than simply a way to read popular culture or other media texts. It is also a conceptual tool with which to search for and identify poly lives and forms of alliance that lead to transformation rather than assimilation. It is argued that this is imperative within the context of the destabilization of the heteronormative nuclear family under the pressures of austerity, a political culture that defines belonging by establishing boundaries around the family (excluding queers) and nation (excluding immigrants), and the rise of neo-fascism in the United States.
