Genie

The story I decided to pursue researching is the life of ‘Genie’, in particular the time that led up to her discovery by authorities: November 3th 1970.

As an opinionated writer, I plan to consider alternate perspectives to the story, such as professionals involved in the case, as well as Genie’s family.

According to Lee Gutkind, ‘truth to the traditional reporter encompasses objectivity, meaning that the reporter must not allow personal feelings to enter into the writing of the story.’

Perspectives I aim to consider when describing Genie’s life include:

 

Her father, Clark Wiley. After 20 months of Genie’s birth, he believed that she was ‘mentally retarded’ and isolated her from society.

He kept Genie’s mother and brother, John, captive. He kept her strapped to a potty and ordered them to never speak to Genie.

He spoke to Genie most of the time in growls and barks, and spoon-fed her milk. He even would sit all day with a loaded gun on his lap.

Her mother Irene, who was nearly blind and was rarely given permission from Clark to speak or go outside. She took Genie with her to seek financial support at a Welfare Office, and a social worker raised a concern after noticing Genie’s appearance.

The first authority figures to see Genie, including detective Sergeant Frank Linley.

Lee Gutkind considers the truth to often be ‘larger than any single fact, not a cut-and-dried positive or negative value. It is quite elusive and, like, beauty, in the eye of the beholder.’ Perhaps readers can find deeper meanings or reflections about society through seemingly minor details in Genie’s story…