Ordinary Control Freaks in Judith Guests Ordinary People Essay

Ordinary Control Freaks in Ordinary People   The Most interesting form of Literature is American Literature. Usually dealing with a make out that must be overcome, American literature deals with real-life situations which one can empathize with. One of the most interesting novels pen by an American author is Ordinary People, by Judith Guest. Ordinary People tells the story of an ordinary family struggling to cope with the loss of a family member undermentioned a boating accident. Brilliantly written, the novel consists of two narrators- Conrad, the Jarrett familys only son left after the boating accident, and Calvin, Conrads father. By using two narrators, both Calvin and Conrads thoughts are revealed. In the novel, Calvin struggles to cope with the loss of his son Buck in the boating accident, and, afterward, Conrads attempt to commit suicide. Calvins personality conflicts with his wifes and his peers. He desires control and order, but, to his dislike, doesnt always have it.   Calvins memorial was eventful, growing up in a foster home without a father and a mother he scarcely saw, which plays a critical situation in his need for control. Growing up in a foster home, Calvins childhood provided little opportunity to control his life. As a grownup, Calvin desires the control he never had. A good example of Calvins desire for control is evident in the scene, during breakfast, when Calvin is talking to Conrad about Dr. Berger, a psychiatrist recommended by Conrads former psychiatrist, Dr. Crawford. besides identifying Calvins desire for control is Calvins ambition to be a good father. His desire to be a good father stems from his childhood, where he never had a father. His line of achievement was no... .... Calvins mindset at work has rubbed off on him in his personal life. Many examples can support this claim. A good example of Calvins work mindset effecting his personal life can be found by his thoughts about Conrads o rthodontist trips in the quote Strive, strive. Correct all defects (9). In short, Calvins desire for control is a trait which is easily identifiable in his personality.   Evidence supporting the claim that Calvin desires control and order, but, to his dislike, doesnt always have it is numerous in the novel Ordinary People. Calvins struggle to overcome his obstacles, including his foster home childhood, the death of his son Buck, and Conrads suicide attempt, along with the challenges faced by Conrad and Beth allow for very complex and dynamic characters in this resplendent example of American literature at its finest.