How I Learned to Drive

In her creative literary design, How I Learned to Drive, Paula Vogel touches on sensitive subjects that not many authors have the guts to base entire plays on. Vogel presents the relationship between Li'l Bit and her uncle Peck that presents both perspectives of a pedophilic relationship. Pedophilia is a topic that not many people are willing and open to talking about and Vogel’s play is based solely on the topic. Her opinions and views are strewn through out the 86 pages of a blunt, confrontational play. Vogel appeals to a younger audience by using humorous and comical phrases like “celestial orbs.” The messages sent to the characters through the Greek chorus show thoughtful insight and create a more personal relationship with the reader and the characters. Anyone can relate to this play in different ways, such as awkward conversations at the dinner table and how parents treat their children. While many families do not have the same discussions as Li’l Bit’s family, everyone has experienced a moment of complete and utter astonishment and/or embarrassment while around their family, and can relate in some fashion to the characters and the choruses. “Family is family” no matter who they are. Paula Vogel uses characters and hilarity to pull the reader into the play and continue reading, word-by-word, page-by-page. Through her enthralling language and tactful ability to make sensitive subjects thought provoking, Vogel leaves the reader wanting more.