A Mother's Son. (April 2013)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Rivera, Dale
• Is Part Of: Cultural studies, critical methodologies. Volume 13:Number 2(2013)
• Page Start: 88
• Page End: 94
• Publication Date: 2013-04
• Subjects: autoethnography -- family communication -- narrative inheritance -- hindsight; Culture -- Research -- Periodicals; Popular culture -- Research -- Periodicals; 306.05
• DOI: 10.1177/1532708612471320
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 1532-7086

Abstract

In this autoethnographic essay, the author explores the possibility of healing, understanding, and moving toward a more comprehensive and honest assessment of self through an examination of "narrative inheritance" and "hindsight." Motivated by an unexpected correspondence, the author asks questions intended to assist in this examination. In particular, the author confronts deep family issues and secrets that have shaped the stories he tells about himself and his family, stories initially dictated by his mother but through recollection and subsequent investigation, become called into question. The author concludes by attempting to reframe the narrative about himself and his family.