Tow #5 - Growing Up (2nd Half - Russell Baker)

In his memoir, Growing Up, Russell Baker chronologically tells his childhood story. In its second half, he explains teenage years in New Jersey and Baltimore, as well as his role in World War II. Baker finishes the book by retelling how he met and married his wife. His ethos is automatic as a writer for the New York Times, and his first person viewpoint makes his credibility unquestionable. This enhances his purpose, which is to demonstrate the mindset of the typical American teenager during World War II, in particular the patriotism and glorification of war. This differs from the first half of the book, which focused on the Great Depression. As a result, his audience has shifted to those who might be interested in how the soldiers’ perception of war has changed over time. First, Baker employs captivating anecdotes to demonstrate the fascinating elements of his childhood. He recalls, “A corpse had been delivered downstairs while I was at school” (Baker 189). The nonchalant way in which Baker explains that he lived in a funeral home shocks modern readers, but, as a child, he thought nothing of it. Baker also uses vivid imagery to demonstrate the differences that account for his patriotism. He describes, “In my fantasies I flew over the trenches on the dawn patrol, white scarf streaming behind me in the wind” (Baker 262). This description illustrates the glorified elements of Baker’s dreams, implying that perhaps he liked the idea of war because he did not consider its destructive aspects. Finally, Baker’s witty juxtapositions allow his purpose to triumph, as it advances his ethos while simultaneously explaining his mindset. He writes, “Karen confided her dreams...owning a horse farm...and I talked of mine...shooting down Japanese warplanes” (Baker 269). By comparing Karen’s dreams to his own, the audience understands how people with two very different upbringings hoped to make their way in the world. By recounting his teenage years as they happened, it is easier to understand the 1940s patriotism and glorification of war. Similarly, the interesting devices Baker uses to accomplish his purpose allow the readers to broaden their horizons and understand different eras.