Literary Analysis Essay of Mitch Albom’s ‘Tuesdays with Morrie’
Mitch Albom’s ‘Tuesdays with Morrie’ is a memoir that relates the experiences of the author and his sociology professor Morrie Schwartz. This non-fiction book enables readers to examine Albom’s dialogue with a man dying from ALS and the corresponding life lessons gained from these encounters. Written from the perspective of Albom, the book treads into careful examination about the significance of life and the nature of transformation not only Mitch but to Morrie as well. By carefully piecing together these stories, readers are able to understand valuable themes and symbolisms that make the character’s experiences rich and in-depth in seeking to explain the value and purpose of man.
One of the themes provided by Albom in his memoir reflects the notion of how our value system should advance choices and decision making. In particular, the author’s interaction with Morrie opened his eyes to the notion that people should not favor popular culture customs but instead try to uphold individual values. For instance, Albom provides that "Well, for one thing, the culture we have does not make people feel good about themselves. We're teaching the wrong things. And you have to be strong enough to say if the culture doesn't work, don't buy it. Create your own. Most people can't do it” (35). This goes to show that instead of allowing society to dictate how we should act, individuals should try to pursue their own values and break away from the realities created by superficiality, greed and violence. It is through such approach that people begin to appreciate life and gain fulfillment.
Another evident theme that is portrayed by Albom and reflects Morrie’s case corresponds to the notion of acceptance. Given that Morrie continues to deteriorate everyday due to his ALS, the book enables readers to appreciate the purpose of his detachment. Specifically, the willingness of Morrie to distance himself from all material things and focus more on the intangibles made him recognize the value of small things in life. By developing this detachment, Morrie was able to find meaning in his situation which eventually led to accepting his fate and death. Stephanie Bowen in her review mentions that "he says if you've found meaning you don't want to go back, and you can appreciate the 23 year old in you, the 35 year old and the 62 year old” (1). By having this kind of mindset, Albom finds solace in the fact that his mentor was able to find contentment and acceptance of his death.
Albom’s book also provides the motif surrounding reincarnation and renewal to both characters. Arguably, both characters complimented one another particularly through their dialogue and exchanges of experiences. For Morrie, Mitch’s presence provided the necessary support and companionship needed to further augment the acceptance of his fate (de Botton 1). On the other hand, Mitch found the insights of Morrie to be supplemental in his reincarnation, particularly on what he considers to be important in life. From the motivation to amass wealth and status, Mitch acknowledges how Morrie changed him to recognize the relevance of passion, love and commitment to individual growth.
Overall, Tuesdays with Morrie remains to be a valuable memoir by Mitch Albom wherein he shares his learning experiences to readers. Like many who find inspiration to a special person, Mitch reveals his encounter with Morrie and how their dialogue shaped his transformation as an individual. By offering part of his life story, Albom inspires readers to find within themselves the inspiration to pursue choices that would complement love, openness and communication. It is through such process and realizations that each one would find the true significance and meaning in life.
Works Cited
Albom, Mitch. Tuesdays with Morrie, New York: Crown Publishing Group. 2007. Print.
Bowen, Stephanie. ‘Book Review: Tuesdays with Morrie’ CNN.com, 1998. Web. Accessed 18 August 2014.
de Botton, Alain. ‘Continuing Ed’ The New York Times, 23 Nov. 1997. Web. Accessed 18 August 2014.
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