An American Childhood (IV)

How did the opening passage of the book lead you to anticipate the ending of the book?

The opening paragraph starts out somewhat depressing. Dillard discusses the aspect of loosing your memory as you age. First, basic facts disappear. Then, your own life experiences go. Finally, the memory of your friends and family fade. What left? Topology, according to Dillard. This fearful passage deals with letting go of the known. Willing or unwilling, memories will die. Everything moves. Everything changes. Nothing remains constant, which is a prevalent theme in Dillard's An American Childhood.

By the end of the book, Dillard is eighteen and leaving for college. Similar fears arise of leaving the known world of Pittsburgh. Her childhood, her friends, and all she's ever been a part of will begin fading and blending together as Dillard moves on with her life. Although she is excited to leave, Dillard cannot help but feeling scared, as all teenagers are when they leave for college. I, myself, have many doubts and fears related to leaving Decatur behind. Of course, I will visit on occasion, but the life I know will disappear the instant that I leave. Younger children will move up and replace my class. Teachers will retire. Friendships will falter. The close knit community I have been creating for myself for the past twelve years of my life will no longer protect me. Given a few years and much of the community will no longer know my name. All Dillard and I have left is the unknown future. The past will fade, and all that remains is topology. Dillard has come full circle.