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Self Discovery In A Monster Calls

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Self discovery is the process of understanding one’s true self, not the version utilized to please others, but the one most people keep in the dark as a result of our harsh society. The novel “A Monster Calls” by Patrick Ness and the animated film “Coco” directed by Adrian Molina and Lee Unkrich demonstrates the massive transformative impact of self discoveries through their protagonists; Conor O’Malley and Miguel Rivera.

The main protagonist of “A Monster Calls” - Conor O’Malley undertakes a self-discovery journey which results in dramatic transformation. The emotional discovery of his mother’s terminal illness allows him to discover ways of coping with his grief and desire for everything to return to normal. This is shown through the ways …show more content…

He uses the yew tree as a symbol of Conor’s conscience telling him the obvious truth, however he still chooses to deny it. This displays the negative impact of such situations on such a young kid, no matter their maturity. For instance, Conor’s emotional discovery led to him closing off to others and selecting and utilizing negative coping methods such as; destroying his surroundings. (“He was yelling as he did it, so loud he couldn’t hear himself think,disappearing into the frenzy of destruction, just mindlessly smashing and smashing and smashing. The monster was right, it was very satisfying.”) Through his self-discovery journey, we as an audience are able to learn about the difficulties of an unsupported adolescent during a dark time filled with grief from Conor’s perspective. We are also able to appreciate how his discovery allows him to grow, heal and recover from the emotional trauma he experienced whilst his mum was still …show more content…

Similarly to Conor, this causes him to rebel and react in negative ways. After his family forbade Miguel from playing music and pursuing his passion, he chose to run away, defying their wishes. This behavior is seen again after the conditions of his great-great grandmother’s blessing were revealed. (“Miguel, I give you my blessing to return home, put my picture back on the ofrenda, and never play music again.”-Mama Imelda.) Even after the numerous attempts of his family trying to reach him and send him back to the land of the living, he continues to defy them and continue his search for Ernesto De La Cruz. (“But they hate music! I need a musician's blessing!”-

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