Written by: Michael Rodriguez

Augusten Burroughs: The Master of Memoir Writing

Augusten Burroughs, a pen name for Christopher Richter Robison, is a household name in the literary world, renowned for his unflinching and heart-wrenching memoirs that have captivated readers worldwide. His debut memoir, Running with Scissors, catapulted him to fame in 2002, offering a candid glimpse into his tumultuous childhood and eccentric upbringing.

A Turbulent Childhood

Burroughs was born on October 23, 1965, in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, to poet Margaret Robison and John G. Robison, a former head of the philosophy department at the University of Massachusetts Amherst. His childhood was marked by instability, with his parents divorcing when he was just 12 years old. His mother then sent him to live with her psychiatrist, Dr. Rodolph Harvey Turcotte, whose unconventional household would become the subject of his first memoir.

Despite the chaos of his early life, Burroughs went on to obtain a GED at 17 and later enrolled in Holyoke Community College as a premed student. However, he dropped out before completing the first semester. It wasn't until he legally changed his name to Augusten Xon Burroughs at 18 that he began to find his voice as a writer. He worked in advertising in Manhattan before seeking treatment for alcoholism in 1996, an experience that would later inform his second memoir, Dry.

• Running with Scissors (2002) - a memoir that chronicles his unconventional childhood and his experiences living with Dr. Turcotte's family.
• Dry (2003) - a memoir that explores his struggles with alcoholism and his journey towards recovery.
• Magical Thinking (2004) - a collection of essays that delve into his eccentric family and his own personal struggles.
• Possible Side Effects (2006) - a memoir that examines his relationships with his family members and his own personal growth.
• You Better Not Cry (2009) - a holiday-themed memoir that explores his experiences during the Christmas season.

Burroughs' writing is characterized by its unflinching honesty, witty humor, and poignant introspection. His work often explores themes of family, identity, and the human condition, offering readers a unique perspective on the complexities of life.

• 2002: Published Running with Scissors, which became a New York Times bestseller.
• 2006: Married his partner, Christopher Schelling.
• 2010: Published You Better Not Cry, which debuted at number six on The New York Times bestseller list.

Burroughs' work has not only captivated readers but has also inspired a new generation of writers to share their own stories. His candid approach to memoir writing has helped to break down barriers and stigmas surrounding mental health, addiction, and family dynamics.

Despite his success, Burroughs has faced criticism for his unconventional childhood and his portrayal of his family members in his memoirs. However, his writing has also been praised for its courage, wit, and unflinching honesty, earning him a devoted following and critical acclaim.

"The only way to get out of a hole is to climb out. And the only way to climb out is to tell the truth."

"I believe that the truth is a beautiful thing, and it should be shared."

Burroughs' work continues to resonate with readers worldwide, offering a unique perspective on the complexities of family, identity, and the human experience. Through his writing, he has inspired countless individuals to share their own stories, sparking a literary movement that shows no signs of slowing down.