Essay: “Tuesdays with Morrie” by Mitch Albom” – Free Sample Paper on the Book

“I’ve got so many people who have been involved with me in close, intimate ways. And love is how you stay alive, even after you are gone.” (Albom 136)

Mitch Albom, the author of Tuesdays with Morrie, uses flashbacks as a literary device to provide deeper meaning to the story. The book chronicles the relationship between Mitch and his dying professor, Morrie Schwartz. Central to the narrative are the fourteen Tuesdays during which Mitch visits Morrie, rekindling their bond after sixteen years of separation. These Tuesdays become symbolic as Morrie imparts valuable life lessons to Mitch while battling ALS. Through the use of flashbacks, Albom emphasizes the significance of these lessons, enriching the reader’s understanding of the story’s emotional depth.

The Role of Flashbacks in the Narrative

Mitch Albom seamlessly weaves together the present and the past, allowing readers to appreciate the depth of his connection with Morrie. The flashbacks not only provide background information but also reveal the evolution of their relationship. In one instance, Morrie reflects on youth, saying:

“I know what a misery being young can be, so don’t tell me it’s so great.” (Albom 117)

This moment highlights Morrie’s wisdom, as he reassures Mitch that every stage of life carries its own challenges and rewards. The flashback adds a reflective tone, allowing the reader to grasp Morrie’s profound perspective on life.

Similarly, Morrie shares his insights on marriage:

“I’ve learned this much about marriage. You get tested. You find out who you are, who the other person is, and how you accommodate or don’t.” (Albom 149)

This lesson is particularly significant to Mitch, who struggles with prioritizing family over his career. Through these flashbacks, Albom connects the reader to the timeless wisdom Morrie shares, reinforcing the theme of love, relationships, and personal fulfillment.

Flashbacks as a Tool for Self-Realization

One of the most impactful lessons Mitch learns from Morrie is about finding meaning in life. Morrie states:

“So many people walk around with a meaningless life. They seem half-asleep, even when they’re busy doing things they think are important. This is because they’re chasing the wrong things. The way you get meaning into your life is to devote yourself to loving others, devote yourself to your community around you, and devote yourself to creating something that gives you purpose and meaning.” (Albom 43)

Mitch reflects on these words, recalling how he once prioritized his career over family, believing success would bring him happiness. By juxtaposing past reflections with present realizations, Albom shows how Morrie’s teachings guide Mitch toward a more meaningful life.

The Emotional Impact of Flashbacks

Throughout the book, Morrie’s statements recalling the past help the reader understand life’s cyclical nature. One of his most powerful reflections is:

“In the beginning of life, when we were infants, we need others to survive, right? And at the end of life, when you get like me, you need others to survive, right? But here’s the secret: in between, we need others as well.” (Albom 157)

Through this flashback, Morrie emphasizes the importance of human connection. Mitch, who once believed in self-reliance, begins to understand that relationships and love are fundamental to a fulfilling life. The professor’s ability to recall his own experiences and pass them on to Mitch allows the reader to experience the wisdom of age and the urgency of time.

Conclusion

Mitch Albom’s use of flashbacks in Tuesdays with Morrie enhances the emotional depth of the story, allowing readers to connect with the profound lessons Morrie shares. These flashbacks provide a context for transformation, illustrating Mitch’s growth as he embraces Morrie’s teachings. By intertwining the past with the present, Albom ensures that Morrie’s wisdom remains alive, even after he is gone, reinforcing the novel’s central message: love and meaningful relationships transcend time.

About authors

John Williams A Top-5 writer at CustomWritings.com

Born in the Florida sun, John now lives in the concrete jungle of the Big Apple. He’s a team supervisor for the #1 health focused grocery store chain in the country. As a student, father and husband with a busy schedule John loves to read the biographies of famous people.

Patric Johnson Head of CustomWritings.com Writing Center

Patric is a 4th year and Assistant Engineer who can juggle his studies and work. He’s also a dedicated parent and husband. Despite his busy schedule he never misses a Texas Longhorns baseball game.