The reading from Joe Amato was rather compelling. It was interesting to get a feel for his family life, and values. He was vivid in his descriptions, leaving me feeling like I actually know a lot about his family and what he is about. He gets very vivid in his explanations of his siblings and how and where they reside. I can relate to many situations he is in…his father’s relationship with his brother definitely sounds all too familiar. It seems that he struggled very much so growing up, not having much money, his parent’s separation, having moved from his home, and many other struggles that might set one back. He still went on to school, and became extremely successful.
It was also interesting hearing about his work life and the corruption that it entailed. It seems that after time he conformed to the ways that were presented to him. He mentions having smiled whenever he was insulted...I enjoyed that.
It also seems that he ended up being a teacher, something that I can relate to. It is inspiring that even though life was not easy living for him he still aspired to do and be something more.