In a world where self-reflection and accountability are not conducive to a successful and sustained career, BURN MY SHADOW tells the story of a man who pauses for Fellini-esque moments of introspection in a nihilistic world. Some of the conflicts faced by Knight include issues like whether or not to parody Tiger Woods’ Mistresses for profit at the height of the scandal, knowing that doing so would result in a harsh ridicule of women he has never met at their most vulnerable time. He also talks about his struggle to maintain composure while telling his girlfriend and costars that he may have exposed them to HIV during the outbreak of 2005, all while facing his own mortality issues.
As a black male actor in the porn industry, Tyler was the lowest on the totem pole – men are disposable, black men even more so– yet he managed to create a brand for himself, won awards, and even has merchandise available. He beat the odds. He’s also, it turns out, a fantastic writer, talented, dark and funny. His book is like a blow to the head, taking the reader deeply into a complex underworld.
