The play Only Drunks and Children Tell the Truth by Drew Hayden Taylor tells the story of Janice, a woman who was taken away from her biological family when she was a child. At some point, her brother Toronto says that “If you have a sound understanding of where you come from, then you’ll have a better understanding of where you’re going to” (Taylor, 2017, p. 11). This is one of the most powerful messages of the book, the one which highlights the importance of knowing one’s origins and embracing one’s identity.
Janice was removed from her cultural environment as a child and then adopted by white parents. Such instances are not rare, and, as her brother notes, can have serious implications for the people experiencing it (Taylor, 2017). Individuals with backgrounds similar to that of the main character may discover that they do not fit in their existing circumstances and, as a result, experience an identity crisis. Understanding their true self can eliminate all the existing issues and help them find a path to balance and satisfaction in life. Janice, on the other hand, is trying to escape her past and does not want to associate herself with her biological family. Yet, despite her resistance, she finally visits the grave of her mother and asks for forgiveness (Taylor, 2017). This marks reconciliation with her native identity and allows her to resolve the inner conflict. Thus, by recognizing her own past, she grows as a person, which will inevitably be beneficial for helping her choose how to live her life in the future.
Only Drunks and Children Tell the Truth teaches its readers the importance of being aware of one’s true identity and not being afraid to accept it. Janice is trying to forget everything about her past, which creates a psychological conflict in her mind. Yet, by coming to her mother’s grave, she reconciles with her original identity and makes a significant step towards becoming a well-balanced person.
Reference
Taylor, D. H. (2017). Only drunks and children tell the truth. Alexander Street Press.