English Language and Literature ETDs
Publication Date
Spring 4-5-2017
Abstract
This work of creative non-fiction is a memoir of the writer’s experiences as a recovering alcoholic who, early in recovery, became involved with a married man in Alcoholics Anonymous while she herself was married, sparking a marital, mid-life, and identity crisis. The protagonist proceeds to break numerous taboos, both within the program of Alcoholics Anonymous and within society, leading to unhealthy enmeshment with the married man and further disillusionment with herself. Two years into her recovery, one of her children dies tragically. Her grief over the loss of her son further alienates her from both family and herself until finally, she finds herself broke, isolated and homeless. Her next move is transgressive, but paradoxically liberates her from the unhealthy entanglement with the married man and becomes a vehicle not only back to her family, but also to herself.
Degree Name
MFA Creative Writing
Level of Degree
Masters
Department Name
English
First Committee Member (Chair)
Greg Martin
Second Committee Member
Emily Black-Rapp
Third Committee Member
Lisa Chavez
Fourth Committee Member
Marisa P. Clark
Fifth Committee Member
Melina Vizcaino-Aleman
Language
English
Keywords
Alcoholism, Recovery, Grief, Trauma, Extramarital, Transgression, Memoir, Crisis, Nonfiction
Document Type
Dissertation
Recommended Citation
Hubka, Catherine A.. "The Price of Admission." (2017). https://digitalrepository.unm.edu/engl_etds/169
