Analyzing the Meaning of Masks in The Outside Circle by Patti LaBoucane-Benson

The Significance of Pete's Masks in The Outside Circle

1. One of the key repeated images in Patti LaBoucane-Benson’s The Outside Circle are the masks that Pete wears throughout his journey of healing. There are two distinct masks: the mask of anger and the mask of reconciliation. Each mask has a significant impact on Pete’s life and are shown to constantly be a part of him from anger and solitude, to healing and reconnection with community. In a comparison and contrast essay, take the two different masks and analyze their meaning to Pete and his journey towards healing and reconciliation with the intergenerational trauma that has haunted him for his entire life. How do the masks symbolize the stages of healing that Pete is working through, and how the specific design choices (including colour) influence our perception of what each mask represents? Be sure to use specific examples from the text, including images.