Richard Rodriguez's Autobiography, Hunger Of Memory

I really enjoyed my reading of Richard Rodriguez’s autobiography, Hunger of Memory. Most autobiographies I have read are about personal stories and opinions. Hunger of Memory was more like a mix of logical and personal examples. Rodriguez often first gives a logical argument, and then backs it up with evidence and personal experience. I personally like to read an argument that is backed up with real life examples, opposed to hypothetical ones.

Another reason I think this book is unique is because of its style. Rodriguez’s writing style is unlike that of any other books I have read. Rodriguez often writes with short sentences; I even feel like he is just writing anything that comes to his mind. While this can get a bit confusing, it gives
He viewed religion more like a chore than a way to grow closer to God. Also, he wanted to read the New Testament by himself, but the nuns objected to this, probably because they were afraid that he would not understand it. I think that Rodriguez wanted to show the nuns that he was very hardworking and intelligent, but people should not read the Bible to impress others. I wish Rodriguez explained his spiritual growth a bit more throughout the course of the book.

I can somewhat relate to Rodriguez’s life. Both of our parents are immigrants whose first language is not English. However, while Rodriguez slowly drifted away from his family’s origin and language throughout the course of the book, I think I have grown closer to my family. Also, Rodriguez was ashamed of his parents’ accent when they spoke English in public. When I was younger, I would also get nervous when I heard my mom talking to the other moms at a museum. I am proud of my parents for coming to a foreign place.

Overall, I enjoyed Richard Rodriguez’s autobiography. I liked reading about many important points from an “unbiased” view (everybody is biased ;D). Rodriguez’s unique writing style also made this a pleasant read for