Chapter 1: Something Isn't Right Summary and Analysis

In the opening chapter of the novel, Deidre, Augusten's mother, dresses to go out. As he watches her, Augusten, the narrator, admits to imitating his mother and dressing in her clothes. He does other things to comfort himself during stressful family times, such as collecting shiny things.

Augusten reflects on his family situation, including his father's aloofness. He explains the distance in his parents' relationship. From the start of the novel, the Burroughs family exhibits irregular and irresponsible behavior. Mr. Burroughs fails to exhibit any fatherly feelings or guidance for his son. Deirdre immerses herself in her work, to the neglect of her son. Augusten exhibits obsessive habits concerning his environment. Such habits will evolve as this memoir continues.

The reader may also notice a bit of Oedipus complex in Augusten. He admires his mother's...