Over the weekend I did some much-needed hard drive cleaning and stumbled onto the essays I wrote back

in 2006 when I was applying for colleges. One essay for Wake Forest University, where I spent my undergrad years, asked me to choose a character in literature with whom I relate and why. I had forgotten about the essay, but as soon as I read the prompt I knew which character I chose. My answer would be the same if someone asked me again today.

So, who did I align myself with? Don’t laugh. Josephine March from Louisa May Alcott’s Little Women. For those who don’t know Jo, let me briefly explain. Second oldest of four daughters. A writer. Stubborn. Determined. Caring. Out-spoken. Confident. I don’t share all of Jo’s characteristics although I sometimes wish I did, but we’ve got a solid few in common.

Photo courtesy of Signet Classics

At the time I wrote this essay, I’m sure I was more focused on getting into college than the intriguing question. But years later, I realized just how much it said about me. It’s a pretty good question to get to know someone.

And so I ask you, who is the literature version of yourself and why? Share your answers (literal, aspirational, comical, whatever) in the comments below.

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