This is a personal reflection and analysis of regional mid-western identity in an individual far removed from the mid-west for the first time.
Inhaltsverzeichnis (Table of Contents)
- Joining the Military and Homesickness
- Regionalism and Identity
- The Power of Familiarity
- Regional Identity: A Transformation
Zielsetzung und Themenschwerpunkte (Objectives and Key Themes)
This essay explores the author's personal journey of self-discovery and the role of regional identity in shaping one's sense of belonging. It examines how the experience of military boot camp, particularly the intense separation from home and the emotional strain it brings, leads to a profound shift in the author's perspective on his Kansas roots.- Regional identity and its impact on personal perspective
- Homesickness and the search for comfort in unfamiliar environments
- The transformative power of military training and its effect on self-awareness
- The importance of embracing one's heritage and appreciating one's origins
- The role of familiarity and nostalgia in fostering a sense of belonging
Zusammenfassung der Kapitel (Chapter Summaries)
The essay begins by detailing the author's initial feelings of discontent with living in Kansas and his desire to escape the "fly-over state." He joins the Marine Corps, seeking travel opportunities, and is thrust into boot camp at MCRD San Diego. The initial culture shock and intense training environment trigger homesickness, leading the author to initially feel embarrassed by his Kansas roots. However, the essay details how the author's subconscious connection to Kansas begins to surface through familiar sounds and experiences. He observes what he believes to be a thunderstorm in the California night sky, which evokes feelings of pride and comfort associated with his home state. This realization marks a turning point, as the author embraces his Kansas heritage and the importance of familiarity. The essay then delves into the concept of regionalism and how it relates to the author's newfound appreciation for his origins. He explores the idea that being taken away from everything familiar and being forced into a new environment can lead to a deeper understanding and appreciation for one's own culture and identity.Schlüsselwörter (Keywords)
The essay focuses on key themes of regional identity, homesickness, military training, self-discovery, and cultural appreciation. It uses these themes to explore the transformative power of experiences that challenge one's preconceived notions and lead to a deeper understanding of one's own heritage.Frequently Asked Questions
How does moving away affect regional identity?
Being removed from a familiar environment often leads to a deeper appreciation and a shift in perspective regarding one's original regional roots and heritage.
What role does military training play in self-discovery?
The intense emotional strain and separation from home during military boot camp can trigger nostalgia and a profound re-evaluation of one's cultural identity.
Why do people feel homesick for places they once disliked?
Familiarity and subconscious connections to sensory experiences (like the sound of a thunderstorm) provide comfort and a sense of belonging in unfamiliar, stressful environments.
What is "regionalism" in this context?
Regionalism refers to the connection and pride an individual feels towards their home region, such as the American Midwest, and how it shapes their personal perspective.
Can an individual's identity be transformed by new environments?
Yes, the essay argues that intense new experiences can lead to embracing one's heritage rather than feeling embarrassed by it, leading to a more integrated sense of self.
- Quote paper
- Jacob Valdez (Author), 2012, Personal Ethnography over Mid-west Regional Identity, Munich, GRIN Verlag, https://www.grin.com/document/211405
