ABSTRACT
This essay examines use of the metaphor ‘coming out of the closet,’ providing an overview of the origins of the metaphor and examples of scholarly and popular use. Several examples are presented of pre-existing critiques of the metaphor, to which are added: The metaphor is ocularcentric, and the notion of stigma inherent in the original meanings of the metaphor suggests a medicalizing aspect, raising additional concerns. The conclusion examines a limit case in the stretching the meaning of the metaphor that I suggest is depoliticizing and evacuates it of meaning.
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Disclosure statement
No potential conflict of interest was reported by the author.