Summary:
The memoir recounts the author's turbulent upbringing in a depressed Massachusetts mill town, where he developed a fierce persona and became involved in violence to cope with his broken family and absent father. It also traces his journey towards finding solace and expression through writing, following in the footsteps of his father, acclaimed writer Andre Dubus.
Key points:
1. Violence's Impact: The book delves into how violence affects individuals and communities. Dubus learns to use violence for survival, but struggles with its moral and emotional fallout.
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