Describe Bowen's tone. How does his narrative style contribute to his thematic explorations?

Throughout the text, Bowen sustains an honest and open narrative tone. Because Bowen is conveying his personal experiences, he writes The World According to Bob from his first first person perspective. He is, therefore, claiming ownership of his own story in his own words. Although Bowen is at times reluctant to speak about his past experiences, over the course of the text he realizes that he must acknowledge these more shameful facets of his life in order to truly embrace renewal and change. This realization engenders a confessional and self-reflective tone, which supports his thematic explorations. Because he is writing about hope and change and his journey towards overcoming his past, he must embrace a forthcoming tone to demonstrate his capacity for growth.

Describe Bowen's past. In what ways is he resistant and determined to claim ownership of these former experiences?