What's Next for Armistead Maupin? 'Maybe a Memoir ... or a One-Man Show'

Cindy Adams caught up with Armistead Maupin, who had some interesting things to say about his new book, "The Days of Anna Madrigal,: and two other famous trangenders:

Via The New York Post:

Armistead Maupin’s ninth “Tales of the City” novel — three became a Laura Linney and Olympia Dukakis miniseries — is out soon. Title: “The Days of Anna Madrigal.” Madrigal’s a transgender. Maupin has a husband. About influencing our attitude toward sexuality, he says: “Yes, I did. I’m an activist. Politicians filed suits and petitioned Congress. I was into our hearts and minds. 

“We own our Santa Fe house at the end of a dirt road. Since 1976 I’ve lived with these characters who talk to one another and percolate in my mind after I give them a situation. I’ve taught myself to write 800 words a day. This book took two years. It’s my final work on this series. “I’m 70 now. I want another venture. Maybe a memoir. Maybe a one-man show. Anna Madrigal is now 92. I knew I couldn’t take her longer. 

“Last year I went on a road trip. To a lonely stretch outside Winnemucca, Nev., where the 16-year-old boy she once was escaped from that whorehouse she called home. It was six cabins. The brothel’s gone. And I imagined how it was to be a transgender boy growing up there without friends. 

“They used Lysol, meant to clean floors, for a feminine hygiene spermicide. At an old restaurant in town, a guy showed me a piece of their old embossed wallpaper. Male and female organs were worked into the paper.” 

About Cher’s daughter-turned-son and Warren Beatty and Annette Bening’s transgender son Stephen, Armistead said: “I’ve watched both with admiration. They’re self-possessed. Articulate. And damn lucky to have such parents.” 

So what are you called for short — Army? 

“No. Armistead. I’m very proud of the name.” 

Armistead Maupin is doing two book-signings in February.

Order "The Days of Anna Madrigal" HERE.