How Does Literature Affect An Individual's Identity

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An individual’s identity is altered and formed through the experiences they encounter in their life. According to James Baldwin, “An identity would seem to be arrived at by the way in which the person faces and uses his experiences.” The way an individual handles the situations that are placed in one’s life can ultimately change their identity. This quote is certainly true because in real life people undergo new experiences everyday which influences one’s identity. Additionally, individuals meet new people which can also influence how one thinks of themselves. Two works of literature that justify the quote are The Maze Runner by James Dashner and Soul Surfer: A True Story of Faith, Family, and Fighting to Get Back on the Board by Bethany Hamilton, …show more content…
This shows to prove that an individual’s identity is more than just memories but sometimes parts of their identity like traits are rooted in one’s being. Another example that supports the quote is when the Gladers go through the process of the Changing. During the Changing, the Gladers regain some of their past memories, however the Gladers realize that they regret receiving those memories back. As stated in The Maze Runner, “The Changing brings back memories. Just little snippets, but definite memories of before we came to this horrible place. Anyone who goes through it acts like a bloody psycho when it's over—although usually not as bad as poor Ben. Anyway, it's like being given your old life back, only to have it snatched away again.” (149) The Gladers sense of identity disappeared because they loss their memories that have developed their identity. The quote shows that most of the Gladers adapted to not knowing their identity, in fact retrieving their past memories was painful for them. Moreover, because the Changing bought back old memories, old lifestyles and the old world it helps the Gladers to see the kind of life they did have but also at the same time …show more content…
As an individual face difficult situations they come to realize that life works mysteriously. However, one must accept the hardships that may take place in their life and make the best out of it. Bethany Hamilton in Soul Surfer: A True Story of Faith, Family and Fighting to Get Back on the Board by Bethany Hamilton, Rick Bundschuh, and Sheryl Berk proves that the quote is indeed correct. In the novel, Bethany endured a shark attack which would turn her life upside-down in a positive and negative way. For instance, she has lost one of her arms but has become a celebrity too. Either way, Bethany’s life has dramatically changed since the shark attack. One example that verifies the quote is the first time Bethany surfs after she has lost an arm from the shark attack. Bethany always had a passion for surfing and dreamed of becoming a pro surfer, however only having one arm was an obstacle for her in pursuing her passion. According to Soul Surfer: A True Story of Faith, Family and Fighting to Get Back on the Board it states, “It’s hard for me to describe the joy I felt after I stood up and rode a wave for the first time after the attack.” (181) Despite the fact that, Bethany has one arm she perseveres and is able to surf. Furthermore, it was believed that Bethany would not be able to surf again, however because Bethany loves surfing greatly she is willing to put in the effort to beat the

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