Narratives of Childhood Trauma

This chapter investigates the portrayal of childhood sexual abuse in literature during the early 1990s, emphasizing the societal trends and clichés that emerged. It critiques the oversimplification of narratives surrounding victimhood and repression, suggesting that these tropes diminish the originality of storytelling. By analyzing works like Jane Smiley's 'A Thousand Acres', the chapter highlights the need for unique psychological insights rather than adherence to cultural conventions.