Traumatized somewhat by Stone Butch Blues

Hi, so I have heard so much about the book but haven’t read the actual book yet. I’m working on a story set in the 70’s and that led me to consider reading the book. But since the book isn’t set in the 70’s I decided to read the plot summary on Wiki to get a general idea first and I’ve got to say I feel pretty traumatized… l knew it was bad to be gay back in the day but not this bad. I have been kind of/close to being sexually assaulted by a man so it’s really hard for me to read things like that. I don’t even know if I can read the actual book but if it has historical significance I’ll bite my lips and read it.

But mainly I’m here to ask if it was still this bad in the 70’s? Stone Butch Blues is a 40’s/50’s story right? I just really don’t want to write about sexual assaults. I don’t think I can. So I’m wondering if I don’t write it it will make my story less genuine.

Thank you so much friends. Now I’m going to try to heal myself 😢😢😢