Identity In The Secret River

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Kate Grenville’s ‘The Secret River’ and Stephen Chbosky’s ‘The Perks of Being a Wallflower’ magnificently explores the concept that identity is not determined by circumstance, but rather is more dependent on choice. Throughout The Secret River, it is evident that although many characters have been placed under the same circumstances, each character’s identity has developed in a unique way. This is also an underlying notion in The Perks of Being a Wallflower, with Charlie and Patrick developing in an entirely different way, despite being put through similar circumstances.

The Secret River and The Perks of Being a Wallflower clearly demonstrates the notion that identity is more dependent on choice than circumstances, through the use of character …show more content…
Throughout the movie, Patrick chooses to embrace his identity. This is evident during the Rocky Horror Picture Show scene, whereby Patrick takes on the role of Frank 'N Furter, symbolising his acceptance of his true identity. Charlie, on the contrary goes to extreme measures to bury his past, in an attempt to hide his real identity. This is evident in the way in which Charlie refuses to confide in anyone, including his closest friends, and the way in which he separates himself from the world. The initial cafeteria scene does an excellent job of portraying this as Charlie chooses to isolate himself in the corner, feeling small and insignificant; rather than daring to socialise with any of his peers. From this, it can be seen that Charlie does not feel worthy of having friends and believes that he “really need[s] to turn things around this year.” Therefore, through the use of character foils, it is evident that identity is more dependent on choice than circumstance as characters within both The Secret River and The Perks of Being a Wallflower have developed differently, based on the choices they …show more content…
However, when his doctor reveals that is it possible to move forward from his traumatic childhood, Charlie discovers that he can finally start putting himself back together again, if only he chooses to. Consequently, the concept that identity is more dependent on choice than circumstance is uncovered, as Charlie understands that his experiences cannot be changed, yet his identity can based on the choices he makes. This is a major turning point in Charlie’s life as he finally makes the choice to repair his fragmented identity. As a result, Charlie is able to move forward in his life, rather than constantly being trapped in his own memories and past experiences. From this, it is clearly evident that identity is not determined by circumstance, but rather is more dependent on
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