Author Archives: Jessica R

In Alison Bechdel’s graphic novel, “Fun Home: A Family Tragicomic,” the concepts of knowledge and self-knowledge become powerful markers in how Bechdel remembers and interprets her past. It’s really interesting when Bechdel starts a diary and begins to doubt and … Continue reading →

In James Baldwin’s “Notes on a Native Son,” the concept of experience drives his autobiographical account. As a writer, Baldwin mission is to put “distance” “between himself” and the social issues concerning the African-American community (6). To do so means … Continue reading →

I have to admit that I was much more of an outdoors person when I was child. With air conditioning and computers, I tend to veg inside more now. Yet, when I was a kid, I loved to play outside. … Continue reading →

In Frederick Douglass’ slave narrative, the early years of his life are filled with severe traumatic experiences. The narrative is straightforward and written in clear terms, which is astonishing given how horrific his childhood was growing up as a slave. … Continue reading →

In Benjamin Franklin’s Autobiography, his thirteen points of Virtue indicate the notion of striving for “moral Perfection,” which does not always match “Custom” (84). Franklin calls for social etiquette, such as not drinking too much or contributing to a conversation … Continue reading →

The year of 2009 was the hardest year of my life, thus far. I rang in the 2009 New Year by surviving four, painful wisdom teeth extractions. So, I should’ve known the following twelve months were going to suck. In … Continue reading →

  In Smith and Watson’s Reading Autobiography: A Guide for Interpreting Life Narratives, a component of autobiographical subject is “Identities as Historically Specific Models” (Page 39). In this category, cultural identities are created “‘within the discourses of history and culture’” … Continue reading →

My hometown of Goose Creek, SC will celebrate its 50th Anniversary this year. What were once dirt roads and acres upon acres of trees in 1961 are now potholes on ill-designed intersections with several fast-food joints on every corner. Fun … Continue reading →

In Sherman Alexie’s “Unauthorized Autobiography of Me,” there are a few instances of traumatic experiences that occur when he is growing up. On page 6, Alexie describes his older sister, Mary, wearing 1970-style short skirts and makeup. He lets the … Continue reading →