Richard Rodriguez "Achivement of Desire" - Sean

In Richard Rodriguez’ “The Achievement of Desire” we read the writings of a man stumbling through his early childhood learning experiences to discover one, simple truth. His focus on academic success had served to create the beginnings of an ever-growing rift between him and his family. As this fact is revealed, he then turns around to sift through his early years grade by grade to explain what happened to that close-knit bond that he once shared with them.

In essence, the writings are not necessarily meant to be of scholarly learning. They are more accurately a collection of self-examining thoughts based on the ideas set forth by an educational writer named Richard Hoggart. Hoggart, in essence, explains that a child who strives to learn in his teachings will drift farther from his family in his desire to succeed in school.

Personally, I felt that Rodriguez’ discussion over his own experiences were heartfelt. I felt somewhat moved by the loss of that family closeness he shared with them. I finished the reading hoping that he’d be able to reconnect with them, and be a part of the family once more. With any luck, his educational know-how will allow him to adapt.