Literary Nonfiction & Unwired by Richard Goodman


Reading Unwired by Richard Goodman highlights the very unique qualities of literary nonfiction compared to fiction. Unlike fictional stories that create imaginary worlds, this piece grounds its narrative in reality, using a simple object a Hemingray glass insulator, to explore personal memories and historical context. For instance, Goodman vividly describes the insulator’s “Chagall blue” color, connecting its beauty to both art and nostalgia. This grounded approach creates a more relatable and reflective reading experience if fiction is not your thing. 

The historical details in Unwired, such as how insulators were repurposed from leftover glass, are seamlessly woven with personal recollections, like watching them from a car window as a child. These elements evoke a sense of human ingenuity and loss, giving the story emotional and intellectual depth. In contrast, fiction might explore similar themes but through invented scenarios with strong story elements. 

Goodman’s reflections on modern communication, like his grandmother’s lament about being overwhelmed by information, add another layer of meaning. This is a hallmark of literary nonfiction: transforming the mundane into something profound while exploring universal themes. Lastly, Unwired invites readers to reconsider everyday objects and their connection to history, humanity, and personal memory. Its blend of fact and introspection creates a powerful, thought-provoking experience that fiction cannot replicate.

As a final note, something that I noticed after reading each type of genre, is that literary nonfiction strikes a nerve with me, because unlike fiction its grounding in realism makes it feel real without being "real" if that makes sense. 

Comments

  1. Emma TaylorNovember 20, 2024 at 7:18 AM

    I totally agree with your point about how *Unwired* shows the unique qualities of literary nonfiction. I think it’s really cool how Goodman takes something as simple as a glass insulator and makes it meaningful by connecting it to history and personal memories. That “Chagall blue” detail is so vivid, and it makes the object feel special in a way fiction might not. I also agree that the mix of historical facts and personal reflection gives the story more emotional depth because it feels real, like you said. It makes you think about everyday things in a deeper way, which is something I really like about literary nonfiction too.

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