This semester I got to expand on the idea of adolescence. Throughout the course, I’ve been able to have a reading list, full of novels that explore this concept. I found myself very intrigued about this topic, and I expanded further on it by seeking out works that weren’t on the list. I found John Green’s ‘Looking for Alaska’ as my favorite of all. The book was recently adapted into an 8-episode series on Hulu as well, and I would recommend it after reading the original work first. So, in this post today, I will be discussing the story, but mainly my experiences from the book. I think the concept of adolescence is explored in a fresh way. I enjoyed watching the main character grow up as the story progressed. Watching them expose themselves to new experiences to gain a better understanding of who they are was relatable for me. I think ‘Pudge’ was a great example.
His role was definitely the ‘coming of age’ main character. The story was set in what is almost the ideal setting for any story. A boarding school for teens in a small town in Alabama was where the story took place. I think the way the setting was used helped to build on certain scenarios and did well to create the feel of a small town/school environment that me as the reader felt. John Green added romance into the equation of adolescence as Pudge navigated his first love along the way. I found that romantic interests and relationships are a big part of growing up too. Watching Pudge and Alaska’s relationship blossom reminded me of relationships I witnessed growing up. He used cigarettes as a way to fit in with his new friends, and his friends as a way to soak in a fresh social experience that he would reflect on while on his search for a better perspective of life. Certain guiding figures can be seen in the book as well, as his World Religions class teacher was a big part of his growth spiritually and and many of his peers.
I think I found the idea of adolescence so interesting because it’s a period we all go through and can relate with some experiences in one way or another. I think seeing the good and the bad in this story helped kind of showed me a fresh look at some real problems faced in adversity. You see addictions, mental illnesses, and general recklessness that makes for a roller coaster ride that is ‘growing up’. The tragic accident that causes the death of a character in the story was a huge moment in terms of change for all characters in the story. I think the way Green was able to connect with the reader and really paint a picture and make the reader feel included with such detail, made all of the plot go by so easily. Adolescence is a crucial time in developing who you are as a person, and literature that expands on it really moves me. I think one of the greatest accomplishments in life you make, is discovering who you are. So, during the semester I’ve had the chance to learn a little more about myself, while reflecting on the opportunity to be young and just beginning my sort of, journey into the real world. Adolescence is an exciting topic, because as I read and study it in class, I can look around and see the twilight hours of my own as I’m finishing college and preparing to begin my career.
— Courtney Hughes
Representing Adolescence @ Pitt 