Self-narration, Autobiography and Identity Construction

Abstract

This article explores the links between personal story-telling, autobiographical writing and the processes of identity construction. The paper draws upon the work of the gender and sexuality group at the Department of Cultural Studies, University of Birmingham. Personal stories, written by the author, for the gender and sexuality group, are used to illustrate the complexities involved in the construction and reconstruction of identity. It is suggested that autobiographical writing produces particular versions of identity, framed by social context and dominant gender relations. A more critical approach to personal story-telling is outlined as a way of making sense of experiences in relation to gender, sexuality and identity.