The paper titled "An Autothanatographical Approach to Paul Kalanithi’s When Breath Becomes Air" by Mahmoud Ibrahim Radwan focuses on analyzing the memoir of Paul Kalanithi, a neurosurgeon diagnosed with terminal lung cancer, through the lens of autothanatography. Autothanatography, a narrative discourse in which the concept of death ('thanatos') replaces life ('bios'), serves as the theoretical framework for this study.
The purpose of the paper is to explore how Kalanithi's experience with terminal illness transforms his life and identity, and how his narrative serves as a testament to his confrontation with mortality. The paper delves into how Kalanithi uses writing as a means to cope with and make sense of his impending death, reflecting on the disruption of his personal and professional life and the strategies he employs to face his illness with dignity and purpose.
The methodology of the study involves a critical examination of Kalanithi’s memoir, applying theories of autothanatography as postulated by various critics, including Derrida’s concept of "testamentary writing" and Frank’s idea of the "wounded storyteller." The analysis draws on Kalanithi’s own words and experiences, alongside relevant literary and philosophical works, to understand the psychological and existential dimensions of living with terminal illness.
Key findings of the study highlight Kalanithi’s journey from being a neurosurgeon to becoming a patient, which leads to a profound transformation in his understanding of life, death, and his own identity. His narrative is characterized by a struggle to maintain a sense of control and meaning in the face of mortality. The study also emphasizes the role of literature and philosophy in Kalanithi’s life, providing him with the tools to articulate his experiences and confront the existential questions posed by his illness.
The paper concludes that Kalanithi's memoir is not just a personal account of dying but also a broader reflection on the human condition. Through his narrative, Kalanithi achieves a form of immortality, as his words continue to influence and resonate with readers even after his death. The study underscores the significance of autothanatography as a means of understanding and coping with terminal illness, offering insights into the interplay between life, death, and narrative.