The Opposite Of Lonliness Summary

Book Arrangements The Opposite of Loneliness begins with an introduction by Anne Fadiman, Marina Keegan’s mentor and professor. The introduction is followed by Keegan’s most well-known essay, “The Opposite of Loneliness.” The book is split up into two sections: Fiction and Nonfiction. The book concludes with a note from Marina’s high school English teacher, Beth Mcnamara.

Book Content

Introductions

The Opposite of Loneliness begins with the death of Marina Keegan. The beginning pages are filled with anecdotes of Marina’s life: the year of YES, her determination to stop the death of literature, the sailing race she entered at the age of fourteen. The introduction speaks to the potential, and the tragedy, of Marina Keegan. The second part

Keegan offers a fresh perspective and current outlook on society and human relationships. Her voice is fresh and youthful, and possesses a quality that very few established writers have: hope. High schoolers and college students all over the world are asked to compromise and set realistic (often times inferior) goals for their future. Marina’s determination to build her own career path and uncompromise on her passion captures the attention of these students.

Audience

Marina’s primary audience is the young people of this generation. Her ideas and thoughts mirror the mind of a young adult. Although Marina’s work might be more relevant to today’s teenagers, adults can also enjoy The Opposite of Loneliness. It perfectly captures the unstable moment of adolescence on the verge of adulthood. This stage in life fosters the same feelings of hope and curiosity in any generation.

Personal Response Reading The Opposite of Loneliness was an entirely unique experience. There is no doubt that the premature death of Marina Keegan adds a dimension to the book that is unparalleled to others in the same genre. However, her storytelling and observations stand brilliant on their own. The characters and storylines are incredibly diverse. There is no lull or lag in any of her sentences, all of them dynamic and constructed with today’s vernacular. I also formed a major attachment to the author. Marina was so relatable. Her fears of leaving the safe bubble of youth was so prevalent to what I was feeling during senior scheduling. During the process of choosing my classes and circumlocuting conversations with parents about my future, Marina’s writing brought all of my crossroads into perspective. Marina made me realize the fragility of life, and how quickly it can be taken away, even for those destined for