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"The Perks of Becoming a Wallflower" and the Theme of Identity

Stephen Chbosky's 1999 novel presents the theme of identity with a protagonist, Charlie, who struggles to find himself during freshmen year of high school. This article would demonstrate the protagonist's lack of identity throughout the entire book and the revelation which made him learn about the dangers of lacking identity.

  • I'm not quite sure what you mean. Can you be more specific about what you mean about "the dangers of lacking identity?" To my understanding, and I realize my reading of the novel is different from others' readings, Charlie has an identity, but that identity is changing throughout the novel. Now whether we view that identity as being distinct, that is up to an interpretation, but I would like to see this article nonetheless. – Matt Sautman 8 years ago
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  • As mentioned by the previous commenter, can you be more specific as to what "the dangers of lacking identity" means? I read the book as a coming-of-age novel where Charlie learns more about himself and those around him. What exactly are the "dangers" caused by a "lack of identity," especially in adolescence? – AaronJRobert 8 years ago
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  • This is an extraordinary book. Love to see any articles about it. – Sean Gadus 6 years ago
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  • Im not sure that Charlie actually "lacks identity" as you say, he does try to find himself as would any other freshman would be but a big part of his identity is dealing with normal school life along Side his depression and memories from his past. – JustEllieWillDo 6 years ago
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