The Perks Of Being A Wallflower: Literary Analysis

Over the past few months I have read some interesting books; I believe these two books have remarkably similar messages about how the challenges we face in life impact who we become for better or worse. The Glass Castle by Jeannette Walls and The Perks of Being A Wallflower by Stephen Chbosky have much in common; they both follow the life of young, impressionable individuals who are faced with adversity and struggle to find their place in the world. These pieces of contemporary literature, both examine and reflect upon how who we become as individuals is shaped by the people and experiences we have in life. The Glass Castle by Jeannette Walls has a exceptionally descriptive writing style told by Jennette herself. All things considered, she

The protagonist, Jeannette, is the narrator of her memoir, telling her story from age three into adulthood. As a child she is adventurous, wild-hearted, and Daddy’s little girl. Jeannette, a middle sibling, is closer to younger brother Brian than her eldest sister Lori. “Brain bit my toe to try to make me laugh” (Walls 148). That she is closer to Brian than Lori Growing up the family moves from place to place as Rex is unable to find or keep a job due to his alcoholism. Incidentally, they often spend much of their time on the road moving from town to town out. Be that as it may, Rose is an artist by heart and lives for adventure; she often feels tied down by her children and even somewhat resentful towards them. Even so, Rex is always promising grand things, such as his dream of building a Glass Castle for their home. “The Glass Castle would have solar cells on the top, electricity for heating and cooling, and its own water-purification system” (Walls 25). Rose and Rex come into money at times, but the money never lasts and they end up poverty struck once again. Ultimately, the siblings frustrated with their way of life plot, plan and save to escape to New York for a better life. They are astonished at how effortless it is to secure jobs, keep a roof over their heads and food in their stomachs. Unfortunately, Maureen is unable to care

It is almost like he is numb inside. Ironically, when Charlie realizes his beloved Aunt Helen had sexually abused him, he has a nervous breakdown, but his friends are there for him. “The best thing about Patrick is that even when you’re in a hospital, he doesn’t change” (Chbosky 209). Still, his immense love for her led him to suppress the memories of these events, even though subconsciously it was impacting his life and who he had become. Charlie concludes that he no longer needs to write his letters as a release for his emotions. In fact, he has started to believe that he has power over his own life and that he does not need to be defined by his past. Everything considered, Charlie's development and growth as a character demonstrate the perks, and the drawbacks, of being a wallflower. The Glass Castle is the story of Jeannette Walls and her families struggles with poverty and at times despair. Constantly short on money, food and shelter the family moves around the country frequently trying to find a better life. Though the family is dysfunctional, Jeannette’s account is expressed without condemning either of the Walls’ parents. As a matter of fact, Jeannette grows up listening to her father’s dreams for the family and her mother’s love of adventure. By the