The Theme of Redemption
The general story of the memoir employs redemption as a central theme. The author, Keri Blakinger, writes about the errors she did while she was at an early age and how she reformed. Blakinger strives to right the wrongs she committed. After being convicted of criminal possession of a controlled substance, the author overcomes the situation and emerges stronger than ever. However, she attributes her release to white privilege.
The Theme of Depression
The book articulates how women in prison were locked and traumatized. Prison wardens constantly threatened women with additional charges whenever they raised an issue. Threats and intimidations create trauma and depression. The theme of depression is also explored through the experiences faced by women while inside the prison. For instance, women on their periods were forced to take out their bloody tampons and put them on the floor for scrutiny. Such experiences bring out depression and despair.
Coming of Age
The story of Keri Blakinger in this memoir follows a journey of struggles with substance use and prostitution to self-awareness before attaining success. Once a drug and sex addict, Blakinger attains success by becoming a writer and a role model to young girls involved in offensive activities. Through her journey, it is clear that she has come of age.
Systemic Racism
Systemic racism in the US prisons is habitual. However, the author speaks out of experience on how people of color and Latino were mistreated in the facilities. The facilities based in rural areas are run by white staff but the people housed there are majority Black and Brown people. The misbehavior reports discriminate against black people because they are perceived as more obstinate compared to their white counterparts.
Substance Use and Self-Destruction
Blakinger used to drink alcohol and abuse substances until she landed in prison. Substance use always culminates in self-destruction. Despite being taken to good schools by her parents, Blakinger found herself in bad company. Due to peer pressure, she started drinking alcohol and using heroin. The outcome of such activities is self-destruction because she ultimately landed in prison.
