“Where Are You Going, Where Have You Been?” is Joyce Carol Oates’s most anthologized story – published in a high percentage of college literature texts. As she’s a prolific author, having producing hundreds of short stories and dozens of novels, explain why you think this particular story grabs the reader so – what do we relate to or feel that makes it such a hit with critics and readers alike?
For me, “Where Are You Going…” proved to be a grabbing partially through her constant use of imagery and description, which allows the reader to picture the scenario in their minds almost exactly, as well as an anticipatory tone. The descriptions allow us to follow the story, but it is Connie’s growing fear and confusion after the arrival of Arnold Friend that keeps the reader hooked, wanting to know what is going to happen next. Connie’s story in itself may also be appealing to readers and critics alike because many of us go through a phase of wanting to be older than we truly are; yet when faced with “grown-up” decisions, we wish we could revert back to our childhood, much like the way Connie reacts when faced with the prospect of leaving her “plain and chunky sister,” abrasive mother, and passive father.
The imagery was great, but that is not what drew my attention to the story. It grabbed me by how real it is, as you stated. Every teenager has that crossroad moment where we have to make an adult decision, but yet we haven't reached adulthood yet. I particularly liked that fact that she used a much older man instead of some one who is merely 1 to 2 years older. It is a very realtable story. The mother who talks down to us, the appeal of the older man, and the wanting to grow up faster than we should.
ReplyDeleteJessica,
ReplyDeleteI agree, the author's constant use of imagery is partially what keeps the reader interested. I also like how she used the theme of music as a narrative motif in the story. When she, Connie, was at her happiest of times there was music "She was hearing music in her head" (1369) and when she was experiencing unhappy thoughts, like having to go back home "She could not hear the music at this distance." (1370. When Arnold Friend and Ellie were trying to coax her into the car they used music saying "got a radio" (1371) and as Arnold got impatient waiting for her to decide to join them "He began to mark time with the music" (1373), a symbolic interpretation of his impatience. Connie's confusion as to whether or not to get in the car was told to us symbolically as she was "listening to the music from her radio and the boy's blend together." (1374).
I think the story is easy for readers to relate to since the characters resemble people most reader have actually known in their lives. By telling the story in real time the author grabs the readers and takes them on a journey to see what will happen next like you stated.
:)
Sue
Sue
Excellent post. I agree that the author uses a lot of imagery. This story is an allegory for moral choice in modern times. Written at a time of change in American culture. Oates makes this piece an examination of the struggle between traditional values and modern superficial pursuits. Connie’s journey down the path of worldliness eventually leads her to a place that she clearly did not intend. It is unclear if all of the religious indications in this story are intentional but it is clear that Oates makes great use of religious and demonic undertones to make the point that although our idea of comfortable tradition may be gone, the superficial future that we are heading for may not lead us in the right direction.
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