One of many places that caught my eye in this article by Julie Beck, was on page eleven when she talks about American optimism quoting Dan McAdams. She quotes, “Americans have sought to author their lives as redemptive tales of atonement, emancipation, recovery, self fulfillment, and upward social mobility.” This quote stuck out to me because it made me come back to the idea that people write their own stories, so they may tell it in anyway they see fit. This illustration of the American story in particular is recurring in many stories. Each and every one of America’s “Redemptive tales of atonement” have a greater story behind them that most people either refuse to see or just simply choose to view America as a ‘couldn’t do anything wrong’ country. Beck goes on to state that, “The trouble comes when redemption isn’t possible.” In many saddening ways, this is true. No matter what the circumstances there will always be a disheartening part of someones life story and omitting these parts omits a whole section of the person.The fact of the matter is that telling a good story could mean a variety of things to a variety of different people. There is, however, a commonality between everyone’s perfect story. Truth. When a person takes the time to really reflect on what kind of image they want to portray, it can make people get lost in their words. It can make people realize how important something negative can be to their lives as a whole. Beck brings up a point when she quotes Pasupathi, “What really matters is whether people are making something meaningful out of what happened.” Though in some senses this is true, I disagree. Telling a lie in a life story is a form of manipulation. A person is looking for a specific response, no matter the path took to get there. Using a truthful experience can elicit a response all its own.
I agree on your thoughts about the quote Beck used from McAdams. I didn’t make the same connection as you did at the time I was reading this essay, but after reading your blog it stands out to me too! This also makes me think of the phrase “there are two sides to every story”. I think that most (if not all) people will pick and choose what they want to say as part of their story, only sharing the ups or the things they believe will give them a reaction they desire.
I agree with your blog on Julie Beck. Specifically, I agree with your statement, “No matter what the circumstances there will always be a disheartening part of someone’s life story and omitting these parts omits a whole section of the person.” When we’ve had hard ships in our lives we cannot just push it to the side and act like it never happened because those hardships are what makes us who we are. I thought this was very well said and relatable.
I love that you are reading as a doubter and a believer. Your annotations look fantastic. You picked up on some important moments. Great work!