Physical journeys
“A journey is more than just a movement from one place to another. It is about learning and growth.”
This statement is shown in our focus text Lionheart, an autobiography by Jesse Martin and in two related texts, Cats in the Cradle, song lyrics by Cat Stevens and the song 100 years, composed by the band, Five for Fighting. These three texts portray not only a physical journey but an emotional adventure. Many techniques are used to create the imagery that portrays the journey. These include autobiographical form, incomplete sentences, colloquial language and the use of photographs and diary entries in Lionheart as well as symbolism and music patterns in Cats in the Cradle and the responsibilities at different ages, shown in 100 Years. The autobiography Lionheart written by Jesse Martin invites the reader along Jesse’s physical journey as well as his journey of emotional and physical development. This use of present tense and an autobiographical nature allows the reader to understand a first hand account of his experiences and to get the reader to think about their own life goals, dreams and achievements. Jesse’s main goal of his adventure was to prove that anyone can fulfil their dreams. This is shown through the use of many quotes in the text including, “I tried to hammer home my theme that young people can do anything and should be encouraged to follow their dreams” and “If we don’t live our dreams, what’s the point in living?” Jesse uses diary entries, photographs, conversational tone, colloquial language, jargon and incomplete sentences “pumped and buzzed with excitement at my new understanding of so many things” which gives the text more of a personal feeling and to attract the youth audience to inspire them. Jesse Martin grew as a person and was able to become a lot stronger as he had to survive many battles along the way, including the presence of no one but himself being around to talk to. Whilst