"Why Be Happy When You Could Be Normal?" is a memoir by Jeanette Winterson that explores her journey through a tumultuous childhood, marked by her experience of being adopted by a strict, religious family. Winterson presents her struggle for identity and belonging against the backdrop of her unconventional upbringing, highlighting her complex relationship with her adoptive mother. This struggle propels her into a quest for love, acceptance, and understanding of her own sexual orientation as a lesbian.
The narrative intricately weaves Winterson's personal experiences with broader themes of literary and social criticism. She reflects on the power of storytelling, how it shapes our identities, and the importance of finding one’s voice. Her writing is not only an exploration of her life but also a commentary on the nature of happiness, societal expectations, and the quest for self-fulfillment in a world that often imposes rigid norms.