Where Are You Going Where Have You Been Literary Analysis Essay

Developing a sense of independence is a key aspect of maturing, however, it is important to approach situations with maturity rather than impulsiveness. In the short story, Where Are You Going, Where Have You Been? by Joyce Carol Oates, the main character Connie believes she is grown up. Throughout this story, we observe the sequence of events ultimately resulting in Connie's abduction and tragic death, which can be attributed to her persistent defiance and flirtatious behavior. In Where Are You Going, Where Have You Been, Joyce Carol Oates employs a tone filled with suspense, purposeful foreshadowing, and a deep analysis of the protagonist, to reveal the vulnerability teenagers experience in their daily lives. Tone plays a crucial role in literature by captivating the reader's interest

Connie’s attributes are showcased prominently in the beginning, thus emphasizing her character. Marie Urbanski breaks down the story and agrees that Oates presents the protagonist early on, when she says, “the first paragraph introduces a vain, spoiled daughter of middle class parents” (Urbanski 1). Connie embodies the typical teenage desire for independence and maturity, which is evident throughout the story. Her preoccupation with her appearance and appeal to romance makes her susceptible to the dangerous charm of Arnold Friend. Connie, despite her sense of maturity, soon comes to the realization that life can be dangerous. She derives her sense of empowerment from her sexual desires, allowing her to assert herself and reject others, which in turn boosts her pride. Urbanski concludes, “the sense of power which her fresh desirable sexuality provides her is the basis for her feeling of a self-directed life” (Urbanski 1). Though she feels authoritative by refusing to go to the barbecue and staying home alone, she soon realizes her mistake when Arnold shows