Date of Award
8-17-2017
Document Type
Thesis
Degree Name
Master of Arts (MA)
Department
Rhetoric and Writing
First Advisor
Joseph Williams
Abstract
This thesis is a memoir project that focuses on a time period of the author’s life between the ages of 13 to 24. The narrative is composed of several stories focused around the author’s abusive father, and its impact on the author as a child. In addition to presenting the memoir, the project also analyzes memoir as a form, arguing that writing of this nature has healing capabilities. It explores how the writing process can become complicated by reliance on memory and re-exposure to traumatic events. The thesis draws on work from Mary Karr, Sondra Perl & Mimi Schwartz, George H. Jensen, Charles M. Anderson & Marian MacCurdy, and Gershen Kaufman. The goal of this project this is to show how nonfiction writing has healing potential for those exploring identity and self-worth while coping with trauma.
Recommended Citation
Canfield, John Paul, "A Writing Journey to Greatness: Leaving My Second-Rate Life Behind" (2017). Theses and Dissertations. 771.
https://research.ualr.edu/etd/771
