Know My Name: A Memoir

Miller sets the parameters of her memoir from this introduction. She clearly states that, “This is not the ultimate truth, but it is mine, told to the best of my ability” (xi). She retells the facts of the case, including the date, her age, the location of her sexual assault, and the context of what occurred. She clarifies the language she will use to refer to various subjects. She also makes clear that the purpose of this memoir is not to be “a personal indictment, not a clapback, blacklist, a rehashing” (xi). Miller sees this memoir as a way “to transform the hurt inside myself, to confront a past, and find a way to live with and incorporate these memories” (xii). Additionally, Miller states her hope to progress past the incidents of her past and to “finally name myself” (xii).

She introduces herself as Chanel and then explains the origin and meaning of her name. Named after summer for her birthday in June, Miller’s Chinese name of Xiao Xia sounds like Chanel. She honors her Chinese roots.

Miller then provides two definitions of rape, according to the FBI and the state of California, respectively.