Running with Scissors is a memoir written by Augusten Burroughs. The book chronicles Burroughs’ coming-of-age story as he grows up in a dysfunctional family, eventually ending up in the care of his mother’s psychiatrist, Dr. Finch.
The memoir explores themes such as mental illness, family dynamics, and self-discovery. Published in 2002, the book received critical acclaim and has since become a bestseller. In this book summary, we will delve into the author’s background, the main themes and characters of the book, and its impact on readers and the literary world.
Key Takeaways:
- Running with Scissors is a memoir by Augusten Burroughs that explores themes such as mental illness, family dynamics, and self-discovery.
- The book tells the story of Burroughs’ coming-of-age as he grows up in a dysfunctional family and ends up in the care of his mother’s psychiatrist.
- Published in 2002, the book received critical acclaim and has become a bestseller.
- The memoir has had a lasting impact on readers and the literary world, exploring controversial topics with humor and honesty.
- Running with Scissors remains a widely read memoir and a testament to the power of personal storytelling.
About the Author
Augusten Burroughs is an American author who has gained international recognition for his candid, introspective memoirs. Born on October 23, 1965, in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, Burroughs struggled with substance abuse, poverty, and mental health issues throughout his life. He began writing in his early twenties, publishing several short stories and essays before penning his first memoir “Running with Scissors,” which chronicles his tumultuous childhood and adolescence under the care of his mother’s unstable psychiatrist.
Burroughs has since written several bestselling memoirs, including “Dry,” “Possible Side Effects,” “Magical Thinking,” “Lust & Wonder,” and “Toil & Trouble.” He has been praised for his raw, unflinching honesty, dark wit, and vivid prose, which have made him one of the most popular memoirists of his generation.
Burroughs currently resides in Connecticut with his husband, Christopher Schelling, and their two dogs. He continues to write and speak publicly on addiction, mental health, and the art of memoir.
“The truth is messy—it’s raw and uncomfortable. You can’t blame people for preferring lies.”
Synopsis of “Running with Scissors”
“Running with Scissors,” a memoir by Augusten Burroughs, is a raw and illuminating coming-of-age story that chronicles his unconventional upbringing in the 1970s. The memoir details Burroughs’s life from the age of 12, after his parents divorced and his mother sent him to live with the eccentric psychiatrist Dr. Finch and his unconventional family. Through his experiences with the Finch family, Burroughs grapples with his own identity, sexual awakening, and mental health, ultimately finding the strength to survive and thrive.
The memoir explores several themes, including the search for belonging, LGBTQ+ identity, mental health, and the complexities of family relationships. Burroughs’s writing style is honest, raw, and humorous, making “Running with Scissors” a captivating and unforgettable read.
Overall, “Running with Scissors” is a searing and poignant memoir that allows readers to see the world through the eyes of a young boy who must navigate the challenges of a dysfunctional family. Burroughs’s candid and courageous writing style is sure to resonate with readers and leave a lasting impact.
Key Characters in “Running with Scissors”
The memoir “Running with Scissors” by Augusten Burroughs features a cast of unique and memorable characters that add richness and depth to the story.
| Character Name | Description |
|---|---|
| Augusten Burroughs | The protagonist and narrator of the memoir, who shares his experiences growing up with a dysfunctional family and living with the eccentric Finch family. |
| Dr. Finch | The patriarch of the Finch family, who is a psychiatrist with unconventional methods and a penchant for controlling those around him. |
| Deirdre Burroughs | Augusten’s mother, who struggles with mental illness and alcoholism, and ultimately sends Augusten to live with the Finches. |
| Natalie Finch | Dr. Finch’s daughter and Augusten’s best friend, who is intelligent and creative but struggles with her family’s dysfunction and her own mental health issues. |
| Neil Bookman | A client of Dr. Finch’s who becomes involved in a romantic relationship with Augusten, despite the significant age difference between them. |
These characters, along with their quirks and flaws, weave together to create a vivid and compelling portrait of an unconventional family dynamic.
Setting of “Running with Scissors”
The events of Augusten Burroughs’ memoir “Running with Scissors” unfold primarily in the city of Northampton, Massachusetts, during the 1970s. The city serves as a vivid backdrop to the story, providing a sense of time and place that situates the reader within the story’s world.
The memoir’s setting plays a crucial role in its overall tone and atmosphere, as Burroughs depicts Northampton as a place of both wonder and darkness. Through his descriptions of the city’s idiosyncrasies and quirks, Burroughs manages to capture the essence of his tumultuous childhood.
“Northampton was a city of academics and artists, lesbians and feminists and writers, and I figured that this was where I belonged. I was an aspiring poet and loved Kerouac and Ginsberg and Bukowski and I figured I’d fit right in.”
In addition to Northampton, “Running with Scissors” also briefly touches on other locations, such as the physician’s office where Burroughs visits his psychiatrist, or the home of his mother’s eccentric boyfriend, Neil Bookman. Each of these settings is presented in vivid detail, providing a sense of texture and depth to the story.
The setting of “Running with Scissors” is not merely a backdrop to the story, but an integral part of its emotional impact. By describing the world around him with care and precision, Burroughs manages to transport the reader to his world, inviting us to experience the highs and lows of his adolescence alongside him.
Themes Explored in “Running with Scissors”
Augusten Burroughs’s memoir “Running with Scissors” explores various themes and motifs, inspired by his personal experiences and psychological growth. These themes cover a diverse range of concepts, including:
- Family dysfunction: The memoir delves into the dysfunction of Burroughs’s family and the impact it had on his upbringing.
- Sexuality and identity: Burroughs discusses his journey to self-discovery and coming to terms with his sexual identity.
- Mental illness: The memoir captures the effects of untreated mental health issues and how they impacted Burroughs and those around him.
- Abuse: Burroughs’s experiences with abuse, both physical and emotional, are a poignant thread throughout the book.
- Self-discovery and growth: “Running with Scissors” describes Burroughs’s journey of self-discovery and finding his place in the world.
The exploration of these themes and motifs allowed Burroughs to craft a beautiful, powerful memoir that resonates with readers even years after its release. He tactfully intertwines these themes with humor and satire, creating an excellent piece of literary work that speaks to his unique talent.
Writing Style and Narrative Techniques in “Running with Scissors”
Augusten Burroughs’s writing style and narrative techniques in “Running with Scissors” have been widely praised for their unique and compelling nature. Burroughs’s writing style is characterized by a distinct mix of humor and darkness, which creates a layered and dynamic portrayal of the events and characters in the memoir. His use of vivid imagery and metaphorical language allows readers to visualize the scenes and emotions in a relatable and engaging way.
The memoir utilizes a nonlinear narrative structure, moving between different time periods and perspectives to create a fragmented and nonlinear account of Burroughs’s life. This allows for a deeper exploration of the recurring themes and motifs in the memoir, such as family dysfunction, mental illness, and the search for identity. The memoir also includes various literary devices, such as foreshadowing and symbolism, which add depth and nuance to the story.
One of the most captivating aspects of Burroughs’s writing style in “Running with Scissors” is his honesty and vulnerability. He does not shy away from exposing his own flaws and mistakes, which creates a relatable and empathetic connection with readers. Additionally, his use of a first-person point of view allows readers to experience the events and emotions alongside him, enhancing the memoir’s authenticity and emotional impact.
“Burroughs’s writing is a true triumph of creative nonfiction, seamlessly weaving humor and tragedy, past and present, to deliver a powerful and unforgettable account of a young man’s coming-of-age.”
Overall, Burroughs’s writing style and narrative techniques in “Running with Scissors” are both skillful and effective in delivering a powerful and emotional memoir. They have inspired and influenced many writers in the memoir genre, and continue to captivate readers with their honesty, humor, and insight.
Critical Reception of “Running with Scissors”
The publication of “Running with Scissors” was met with mixed critical reception, with some reviewers praising its dark humor and stark honesty, while others criticized its graphic depictions of child abuse and mental illness.
The New York Times Book Review called the memoir “brave and funny” and praised Burroughs’s ability to find humor in even the most painful experiences. The Los Angeles Times hailed it as a “stunningly good” work that transcends the limitations of the memoir genre.
However, some reviewers took issue with the book’s controversial content, including its portrayal of Burroughs’s mentally unstable mother and his relationship with an older man who becomes his legal guardian. The Washington Post criticized the memoir as a “voyeuristic excursion into a troubled mind” that lacks emotional depth and authenticity.
Despite its divisive critical reception, “Running with Scissors” remains a polarizing and influential work that has resonated with many readers and helped to redefine the memoir genre.
Impact and Influence of “Running with Scissors”
Since its publication, “Running with Scissors” has had a significant impact on readers, the literary world, and the memoir genre. Augusten Burroughs’s candid and raw depiction of his unusual upbringing struck a chord with many readers, who were moved by his heartfelt honesty and the powerful emotions conveyed in the memoir.
The book’s influence can be seen in the numerous memoirs and autobiographical works that have been published since its release, many of which draw inspiration from Burroughs’s writing style and narrative techniques. Its success has also paved the way for other unconventional memoirs to be published and accepted by the literary community.
Furthermore, the book’s legacy has been solidified by its adaptation into a major motion picture and its enduring popularity among readers. It has been praised for its unflinching portrayal of difficult subject matter and its ability to provoke discussion and reflection, making it an important work in the literary canon.
In summary, “Running with Scissors” has made a lasting impact on memoir writing and has influenced a generation of writers who seek to share their own unconventional stories with readers. Its influence and legacy serve as a testament to the power of personal storytelling and the importance of using literature to explore complex emotions and experiences.
Similar Books to “Running with Scissors”
If you enjoyed “Running with Scissors” and are looking for similar books, here are some memoirs that might pique your interest:
| Book Title | Author | Summary |
|---|---|---|
| Wild | Cheryl Strayed | After losing her mother and marriage, Cheryl Strayed decides to hike the Pacific Crest Trail, reflecting on her past experiences and facing her inner demons. |
| Educated | Tara Westover | Tara Westover recounts her life growing up in a strict Mormon family and her journey towards getting an education and breaking free from her abusive family. |
| The Glass Castle | Jeannette Walls | Jeannette Walls tells the story of her unconventional childhood, raised by her dysfunctional but loving parents who lived a nomadic lifestyle and struggled with poverty. |
Wild by Cheryl Strayed is a moving and honest memoir that explores themes of self-discovery, resilience, and healing, similar to “Running with Scissors.” “Educated” by Tara Westover and “The Glass Castle” by Jeannette Walls also touch on themes of family dysfunction, personal growth, and overcoming adversity.
Film Adaptation of “Running with Scissors”
The film adaptation of “Running with Scissors,” directed by Ryan Murphy and starring Annette Bening and Alec Baldwin, was released in 2006. While the movie stays faithful to the book’s overall plot, there are notable differences in how the story is portrayed on screen.
One significant change is the portrayal of Augusten’s mother, Deirdre. In the book, Deirdre is depicted as a complex and troubled individual struggling with mental illness. However, in the movie, she is portrayed as a more one-dimensional, villainous character, which some fans of the book found disappointing.
On the other hand, the film’s strong performances by Bening and Baldwin received critical acclaim. However, the movie received mixed reviews overall and was not a commercial success.
Comparison Table
| Book | Film |
|---|---|
| Deirdre’s character is complex and multifaceted. | Deirdre is portrayed more as a villainous character. |
| The story is narrated by Augusten. | The movie uses a more traditional third-person narrative style. |
| The book explores themes of mental illness, dysfunctional families, and personal growth. | The movie places more emphasis on the quirks and eccentricities of the characters. |
Overall, while the film adaptation of “Running with Scissors” received mixed reviews, it remains an intriguing interpretation of Augusten Burroughs’s powerful memoir.
Important Quotes from “Running with Scissors”
Augusten Burroughs’s “Running with Scissors” is full of witty, poignant, and thought-provoking quotes that encapsulate the memoir’s themes and characters. Here are some of the most memorable lines:
“My mother had a dark heart feeling as if bad things happened because I caused them.”
“Hope is such a painful thing, the hurtiest of things, and yet we cling to it with each sinew of our marrow.”
“The truth will always be the truth, no matter how much we try to ignore it or hide from it.”
“The mind has a way of making sense of things to protect itself. Even when that leads to madness or tragedy.”
“Memory is really just an illusion, a re-telling of the past based on our present emotions and experiences.”
These quotes reveal the complexities and contradictions of the human psyche, portraying the pain, resilience, and humor that define our lives. “Running with Scissors” is a testament to Burroughs’s masterful storytelling and his ability to capture the essence of the human experience.
Controversy and Criticism Surrounding “Running with Scissors”
Despite its critical acclaim and popularity among readers, “Running with Scissors” has also received its fair share of controversy and criticism.
One of the main concerns raised by some readers is the ethics of Burroughs’s portrayal of his family members and their behavior, including allegations of abuse and neglect. Some critics argue that the book sensationalizes mental illness and perpetuates harmful stereotypes about those who struggle with it.
Furthermore, some have raised legal concerns about the accuracy of the events described in the book and the potential harm caused to the real-life individuals who inspired the characters.
“The memoir presents its young protagonist not only as neglected and nearly feral, but also as committed to a mental institution and involved in a sexual relationship with a 33-year-old man – all before his 16th birthday. That Burroughs packages these extremely bleak events as comedy – and never seriously examines or condemns anything that takes place – is evidence, his critics say, of poor judgment and taste.”
– Laura Miller, Salon.com
While “Running with Scissors” remains a beloved and influential memoir, its controversies and criticisms serve as a reminder of the complex and often fraught relationship between personal storytelling and the responsibilities of memoirists.
Legacy of “Running with Scissors”
Since its publication in 2002, “Running with Scissors” has left an indelible mark on the literary landscape, cementing Augusten Burroughs’s status as one of the most respected and influential memoirists of his generation. The book’s unflinching honesty, wry humor, and vivid descriptions of his turbulent upbringing have resonated with readers around the world, inspiring empathy, fascination, and admiration.
The legacy of “Running with Scissors” can be seen in the numerous accolades it has garnered over the years, including being named a New York Times Notable Book and a finalist for the Lambda Literary Award. It has also been adapted into a major motion picture and translated into multiple languages, further increasing its reach and impact.
Perhaps the most significant aspect of the book’s legacy, however, is its enduring popularity among readers of all ages and backgrounds. “Running with Scissors” continues to be a bestseller and a beloved classic, captivating new audiences and inspiring new generations of writers to explore the complexity of the human experience through memoir.
The legacy of “Running with Scissors” proves that a powerful and honest memoir can have a lasting impact on readers, offering insight, catharsis, and hope to anyone struggling to make sense of their own life story.
Discussion and Analysis of “Running with Scissors”
Augusten Burroughs’s memoir “Running with Scissors” is a highly introspective and emotionally charged book that explores the author’s tumultuous childhood and adolescence. In this section, we will provide an in-depth discussion and analysis of the book’s major themes, narrative techniques, and character development, shedding light on the key elements that make this memoir so compelling.
The Themes of “Running with Scissors”
The memoir tackles several major themes, including mental illness, dysfunctional families, and the transformative power of art. Burroughs depicts his mother’s struggles with mental illness and his own journey of self-discovery and acceptance with raw honesty and sensitivity.
The Narrative Techniques in “Running with Scissors”
Burroughs’s narrative style is characterized by its vivid descriptions and imaginative prose. He employs a range of techniques, including stream-of-consciousness writing and vivid sensory details, to convey the emotional weight of his experiences. One of the most striking aspects of the book is its unique and unconventional structure, which mirrors the author’s fragmented memories and nonlinear thought processes.
The Character Development in “Running with Scissors”
Throughout the narrative, Burroughs traces his own personal growth and development, showing how his experiences shaped his identity and worldview. He also provides richly drawn portraits of the other characters in the book, including his eccentric and volatile mother, his kindhearted but troubled foster family, and the mentally unstable therapist who becomes his mentor.
“Running with Scissors is a powerful and deeply affecting memoir that explores the complexities of mental illness, family dysfunction, and artistic expression with honesty, compassion, and insight.”
The Significance of “Running with Scissors”
“Running with Scissors” has had a profound impact on readers and critics alike, cementing Burroughs’s reputation as one of the most distinctive and innovative voices in contemporary memoir writing. The book’s frank depiction of taboo subjects and nontraditional narrative structure challenged conventional literary norms and paved the way for other memoirists to explore the inner workings of the human mind with equal candor and depth.
The Legacy of “Running with Scissors”
More than two decades after its initial publication, “Running with Scissors” remains a seminal work of memoir literature that speaks to the universal human experience of trauma, healing, and self-discovery. Its influence can be seen in the numerous other books and films that have been inspired by Burroughs’s unique and provocative approach to memoir writing.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Running with Scissors by Augusten Burroughs is a powerful and thought-provoking memoir that explores themes of family, mental health, and identity. Through his vivid and honest prose, Burroughs offers readers a unique window into his unusual upbringing and the challenges he faced on his path to self-discovery.
While controversial and at times unsettling, Running with Scissors has become a cultural touchstone in the memoir genre. Its impact on both readers and the literary world has been significant, and its enduring popularity is a testament to its enduring relevance and emotional resonance.
This book summary has highlighted key aspects of Burroughs’s memoir, including its major themes, memorable characters, and narrative techniques. It has also provided an overview of the critical reception of Running with Scissors and its film adaptation, as well as recommendations for readers seeking similar works.
Ultimately, Running with Scissors is a must-read for anyone interested in memoirs, personal growth, and the complexities of family relationships. Its honest and unflinching portrayal of Burroughs’s life is a testament to the power of storytelling and the resilience of the human spirit.
