According to the Swiss psychologist, Karl Jung, we are all part of a collective unconscious. This means that we all fit into some archetypal pattern that describes our experiences and the experiences with others. The American writer, Alice Walker, came from unspectacular roots, was thought originally to be exceptionally average, and had to prove herself to achieve a goal that was thought unattainable. To some people who are fortunate to be rich or have other allowances, her accomplishments would have been easier to achieve. However, Alice Walker's background made it harder for her. Alice Walker fits into the archetypal character of local girl makes good because of her trials as a young African American woman in the south, personal problems she overcame, and her overwhelming success as a poet, novelist, essayist and editor.

There were many obstacles in Alice Walker's early life that she had to overcome. Life...