Perhaps, we all have a different understanding of the word "family." Some of us might restrict the word to a description of a group that consists of parents and their children. Others might describe it in a wider sense and include those who become family members through marriage or adoption. Words often associated with "family" might include: warm, safe, wisdom, support. Another expression often associated with family is "dysfunctional," that is, one characterised by conflict, misbehaviour or abuse. With regard to literature, no two books examine the family theme in the same way. This is not surprising if we consider that, in reality, no two families behave in the same way and not all families are comprised of a husband, wife, and children.
Many books that delve into this theme feature different types of families, including single-parent families, blended families, and families with same-sex parents. It’s also common for grandparents, aunts, uncles, and other members of the extended family to play important roles.
So - what do families have in common?
It is, perhaps, the experience of families that is universal while the quality of that experience varies. After all, somebody gave birth to us and somebody (not necessarily the same person) raised us. Even a tiny amount of family life will influence us and leave us with emotions and feelings. Nobody can remain neutral about it and this is what makes the theme of "family" such a wonderful inspiration for writers. There is so much that can be positive, so much that can be negative and so much that can be even worse and scar us forever.
Here are some well-known novels that deal with the theme of family.
Little Women by Louisa May Alcott
A Tree grows in Brooklyn by Betty Smith
If you Leave me by Crystal Hana Kim
The Glass Castle by Jeannette Walls
The House of the Spirits by Isabel Allende
The Piper's Son by Melina Marchetta
Incidentally, the accompanying photograph above was taken at a reunion of the author's family in York just a few weeks ago. And, I am delighted to say, what a very happy reunion it was!!
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