The Motorcycle Diaries

The Motorcycle Diaries by Ernesto Che Guevara

Journalism/Non-Fiction

I feel that it is very unfortunate when icons become solely known for their revolutionary tendencies. I find that their beginnings are far more fascinating. Ernesto Che Guevara’s diary is one that is very close to Beat literature in some senses. It is a manifestation of change, of discovering culture and social identity, and of taking this discovery to hone in on the individual. When most often times people look within to find themselves (that sounds very fluffy-bunnyish. I apologize—barf bags are located in the front pocket of the seat in front of you.) I agree with Guevara that it is outside of the self that we discover the human being and figure out that our role is at once miniscule and abounding. The film is excellent too…but read the diary first.

S. Clark