Barbarian Days: A Surfing Life

Finnegan describes violence as an “ambient” part of his childhood. How does he demonstrate that violence was frequently part of his life and those of his peers? Cite passages from the text in your response.

How were Finnegan’s formative years impacted by the political and social climate of the 1960s and 1970s? How does he look back on this time now? Explain, referencing the text.

Although Finnegan’s parents encouraged his interest in surfing, he found that his obsession with the sport caused him to feel more distant from his family. How does he frame surfing and the ocean as an escape from land, family and society generally? Explain in detail, citing passages from the text.