Lessons From a 20-Person Polycule

The word “polycule” is a synthesis of polyamory — engaging in multiple romantic relationships — and molecule. It’s not clear when the word was coined, but it seems to have started catching on around 15 years ago to suggest an intricate structure formed of people with overlapping deep attachments: romantic, sexual, sensual, platonic. It’s difficult to describe a polycule. Words like “family” and “network” are used, but neither on its own captures it. Perhaps it’s best left to a polycule itself to offer descriptions. These are the voices and images of people who are part of a polycule in the Boston area.

These photographs were taken at a gathering of the polycule in Cambridge, Mass., in March. Some people pictured or interviewed asked that they not be identified and are using a middle name or a nickname.

Ann It’s chosen family. It works like complex kinship networks work — just a little kinkier. It reflects radical queer values.

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