Joyce Carol Oates is a prolific author of works in Literature, Film, Poetry and Stage. Her most famous short story, Where Are You Going, Where Have You Been, has been studied for decades by critics whom theories on the story, and by extension it's ending, range from religious, fantastic, dreamlike to unflinching realistic. The story itself, which details the activities of an teenage girl and her horrifying encounter with dangerous strangers, showcases a trademark in Oates stories of violence and
Joyce Carol Oates’ short story, “Where Are You Going, Where Have You Been?” takes readers on a suspenseful ride. Not only does Oates create a thrilling plot, but also ends her story in a complete mystery for what happens next. By analyzing the elements of theme, symbolism, and characterization, it can help create a better understanding for “Where Are You Going, Where Have You Been?” On of the themes from, “Where Are You Going, Where Have You Been?” is the reality of who someone really is. Despite
have you been?” Critical Analysis Joyce Carol Oates born on (June 16, 1938) in Lockport, New York spent her youth on her guardians' ranch. Lockport, a little provincial town, had battled financially since the Great Depression, yet it gave Oates a wholesome domain in which to grow up. "Where Are You Going, Where Have You Been?" is viewed as one of Oates' most celebrated works. Initially distributed in the artistic diary Epoch in 1966, it was later included in the short-story gathering The Wheel of