illustration of a young girl, Connie, reflected in the sunglasses of a man, Arnold Friend

Where Are You Going, Where Have You Been?

by Joyce Carol Oates

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Student Question

What genre is "Where Are You Going, Where Have You Been?"?

Quick answer:

"Where Are You Going, Where Have You Been?" by Joyce Carol Oates is a short story that falls within the genres of psychological realism and gothic horror. It employs psychological realism by channeling the narrative through the protagonist's consciousness, while also incorporating elements of gothic horror. The story is noted for its violent nature and chilling sense of reality, drawing on the author's memories and experiences from her youth.

Expert Answers

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This work, written by Joyce Carol Oates is a short story. 

"As with much of Oates's fiction, "Where Are You Going, Where Have You Been?" uses the technique of psychological realism, funneling the narrative through Connie's consciousness, along with elements of gothic horror, to chilling effect."

The work can be considered horror, or gothic.  It is of a very violent nature that uses experiences from the author's memories of her youth and growing up.  She fills this story with violence and a chilling sense of reality.

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