Tiny Beautiful Things Themes

Tiny Beautiful Things Themes

Being yourself no matter the consequences

In each of the essays within Tiny Beautiful Things, Cheryl Strayed (as "Sugar"), shows readers who she is through her advice. Even though her advice is anonymous, she is not afraid to be herself no matter the consequences that may come to her because of that advice. For example, in one of her essays, Strayed advises her readers that “Most things will be okay eventually, but not everything will be. Sometimes," Strayed continues, "you'll put up a good fight and lose. Sometimes you'll hold on hard and realize there is no choice but to let go. Acceptance is a small, quiet room.” That kind of advice is unpopular but helpful to many people. Strayed gave that advice without fear of being disfavored and in line with the person that she is, showing how important it is to be yourself and tell the truth no matter the consequences that may come to you.

Anonimity

The essays that make up Tiny Beautiful Things were first published anonymously in an online literary magazine by author Cheryl Strayed. That anonymity gave some allure to Strayed's advice (as her persona "Sugar") and allowed her greater freedom to express her feelings. Of course, Strayed eventually put her name to that advice when she published her essays as Tiny Beautiful Things, thus removing her anonymity and giving her advice more weight.

Giving advice to those in need

In each of the essays within Tiny Beautiful Things, Strayed advises people who need it—including those with family trouble, relationship troubles, and mental health struggles. People contacted Strayed (as "Sugar") because they needed help with their lives and had no one else to turn to. They were desperate and trusted Sugar's advice over the other advice they received. Readers received guidance from a third-party person in Strayed, which she reveals is usually very important to a person's decision-making process.

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