Journal Entry 5

I think the most notable chapter where a character is associated with an inaccurate association with Appalachia is when Patrick Rowen goes on his killing spree and how this is associated as a common occurrence in this region. The entire chapter is an over embellishment of what was happening. Particularly when Patrick kills his own father and Rebecca Talbert’s father, I can see this happening in a rare situation by some crazy guy. But to honestly make it an obvious reference to the violence and homicides that were taking place, give me a break. I completely disagree with what was being said in the play. However, there was a need for someone to write about what was going on. I just don’t think that half of the things that happened all throughout the play needed to actually happen to get a point across. Everything that could have gone wrong in every situation throughout that play ended up going wrong. Fortunately that is not what happened in Appalachia during that time period, though there was violence don’t get me wrong. To use Patrick as an example of the lack of respect kids had for their parents in the region was incorrect by all means. Every aspect of his character was over embellished to show how poorly a kid can turn out by being raised in such household, what paths an individual will take to get what he or she wants, and the idea of what it means to have a good life. Yes, land was a big deal back then, and in some cases it still is today. However, no one would kill their own father or their lover’s father over it. A lot of land is not the key to a happy life. The key to a happy life in the Appalachian region is a strong family, good graces from everyone, strong religion, and a sound household. I don’t think Patrick nor his “forced to be” wife Rebecca had any of that.