English Language and Literature ETDs
Publication Date
Spring 5-1-2020
Abstract
The Ridgeway Ghost is a memoir in essays about alcohol and alcoholism, about the way my father’s alcoholism has affected my life, about the way that generational alcoholism in my father’s family has affected my life, my relationships, and the way I think about myself. It’s about how place and culture can create the ideal circumstances for addiction to take root in a family and never let go. The story told through The Ridgeway Ghost isn’t unique – it’s abundantly common – but through this selection of essays I analyze the culturally embedded mentality of drinking as a staple of life in Wisconsin and the way functional alcoholism can crater a person or a family.
Degree Name
MFA Creative Writing
Level of Degree
Masters
Department Name
English
First Committee Member (Chair)
Gregory Martin
Second Committee Member
Lisa Chavez
Third Committee Member
Andrew Bourelle
Fourth Committee Member
Marisa P. Clark
Fifth Committee Member
Matthew Cashion
Language
English
Keywords
Memoir, Nonfiction, Midwest, Wisconsin, Coming of age, Alcoholism
Document Type
Dissertation
Recommended Citation
Marty, Mitch. "The Ridgeway Ghost." (2020). https://digitalrepository.unm.edu/engl_etds/288
