Writing My Wrongs is a prison memoir, so it's no shocker that freedom and confinement is a major theme.
But it's brutally eye-opening what the system of confinement often does to people—many seem to be more inclined to commit violence in prison than they were outside. It's a much happier surprise where Shaka finds freedom even during his incarceration—in writing letters or stories, for instance.
Questions About Freedom and Confinement
- Is prison the best way to prevent those who've committed crimes from harming society? What other options might there be?
- What kinds of freedom does Shaka long for in the course of his memoir, and what personal qualities does he need to develop to be truly free?
- What's the difference between Shaka before his prison experience and Shaka after? Is it confinement or freedom that has changed him, or both?