Butterfly Man, first published in 1934, is one of the first openly gay novels available in the United States. The story centers on Ken Gracey, who escapes from poverty in Texas to become a dancer, ending up in Tijuana, Mexico. A chance encounter with a theatrical agent brings Ken to New York City and Broadway, where his career blossoms. Numerous gay relationships develop, but Ken is plagued by alcoholic binges and blackouts, and a downward spiral follows leading to a tragic ending.