Reflections on "Becoming" by Michelle Obama
Stepping into the pages of "Becoming," I felt an exhilarating mix of anticipation and curiosity. Here was Michelle Obama, a figure whose poise and grace inspired millions, ready to share her story. As someone who voted for Barack in both 2008 and 2012, and who generally aligns with Democratic values, I was eager to dive into her perspective. But I also approached the book with a healthy dose of skepticism, questioning how identity impacts narrative and tone in political memoirs.
"Becoming" traverses the landscape of Michelle’s life, from her upbringing in Chicago to her time as First Lady. The weight of her experiences is palpable, and she often captures the struggle between ambition and self-identity. The themes of race, gender, and family echo throughout, revealing both her triumphs and the challenges she faced as a woman of color in a predominantly white world.
While reading, I noted a recurring mention of race that sparked my own reflections. At times, it felt like she pointed out someone’s race without context, which struck me as unnecessary. For instance, her description of a teacher as a "diminutive white lady" felt like an awkward detail rather than a meaningful observation. Yet there were moments where her discussions on race resonated deeply, especially regarding historical contexts and systemic issues. Still, I couldn’t shake the feeling that her emphasis at times came off as subtly resentful, leaving me to consider whether it stemmed from her identity as a Black woman navigating predominantly white spaces.
Michelle’s portrayal of Barack was another complex aspect. While I admired her dedication to honoring her husband, I was disappointed by the one-dimensional superhero narrative she presented. Was he never short-tempered, misguided, or prone to flaws? From the perfect memories of his kind demeanor to the notion that he sauntered through life devoid of doubts, I wondered if I was reading an idealized press release rather than a genuine memoir.
Despite these critiques, there were moments that reminded me why Michelle’s endeavors are pivotal. Her deep commitment to family and advocacy for health and education struck a chord. Quotes like “For better or worse, I’d fallen in love with a man with a vision” illuminate the foundation on which their partnership was built, evoking admiration for her strength in both motherhood and ambition.
Ultimately, "Becoming" is well-crafted, despite my apprehensions about certain details. Michelle’s journey is especially engaging for those interested in the personal lives of significant public figures and the nuances of navigating identity within that realm. The book unfolds with a steady pace, each chapter a reflection of her growth at various life stages.
In closing, while "Becoming" might not have altered my outlook in ways I expected, it reaffirmed my interest in understanding multi-faceted identities and the narratives we build around them. If you have a fascination with influential women in American politics or enjoy memoirs that blend personal history with broader social themes, this book may resonate with you. It left me pondering deeply about identity politics and the complexity of human experiences, a conversation worth having in today’s world.