The Distance Between Us

Cathexis occurs when a person imbues a person, object, or idea with an emotional or mental significance. Fiction writers sometimes talk about this process as giving their characters emotional talismans, particularly when the emotional charge is assigned to an object. Writers of all genres leverage cathexis as a writing technique that allows them to convey larger emotional truths via imagery. How is this technique at work in Grande’s memoir? How effective is her use of this technique, and how does it impact the memoir?

Teaching Suggestion: Students may have various answers in response to this prompt. The most significant use of cathexis in this memoir is the image of Grande’s father’s hands, especially in comparison to hers. If needed, prompt students to include this important motif or others in their analysis and discussion of the memoir.