Very interesting reflection on identity in the modern world as it relates to family, fame, and trajedy. I have to say that the situation does feel very familiar to me based on some other readings and historical examples. I&#x27;ll explain. The most prominent correlative is with respect to Hunter S. Thompson. He created Raoul Duke as a character, and Gonzo Journalism as the method by which to report and embellish&#x2F;comment on the world.<p>I view it very much as a &#x27;persona&#x27; and, in my opinion, most all highly intelligent individuals - especially those in the public eye - <i>must</i> have one (or quickly develop one) in order to cope with the needs of being self-confident to carry forward with beliefs and goals and values, yet also be able to &quot;put down the microphone&quot; and live a wholesome, personal life. This is the elements of celebrity and notariety that are weaved into the essay, and it&#x27;s very touching to see the care expressed toward himself, his brother, and trying to understand and work through the behavior of outsiders. Aaron, from what I saw and recall, had a very prominent persona. It&#x27;s pretty much &#x27;immortality&#x27; in the Achilles sense.<p>To me, and this is just from one musician and writer who has embraced using pen names and personas for years, this article is very useful to give some thought and consideration to how, generally speaking, US society and culture has decided to value &#x27;authenticity&#x27; and &#x27;transparency&#x27; to the point of being a little bit intrusive. I&#x27;m possibly under-stating it, but I also don&#x27;t want to get too far away from what the essay is conveying to me. It&#x27;s an affirmation of a perspective I formed and was guided to form as a youth in the arts: Notariety, whatever its source, has significant baggage.<p>[1] <a href="https:&#x2F;&#x2F;www.youtube.com&#x2F;watch?v=r31hV_BPFf0" rel="nofollow">https:&#x2F;&#x2F;www.youtube.com&#x2F;watch?v=r31hV_BPFf0</a>