47 pages 1 hour read

Joan Didion

The White Album

Nonfiction | Essay Collection | Adult | Published in 1979

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Essay Topics

1.

Analyze Didion’s views on storytelling and place them in the context of social media, where—as actress, writer, and Didion fan Tavi Gevinson writes—“Stories are the most ubiquitous product” (“Editor’s Letter.” Rookie, 1 Jan. 2018).

2.

Consider Didion thoughts on feminism in light of the contemporary discourse around women and feminism. What makes Didion’s essay “The Women’s Movement” controversial? Conversely, what might this essay reveal about feminism and social movements?

3.

Choose one essay of particular interest and read it closely. Discuss its themes and literary devices, and explain how it captures Didion’s unique voice.

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