The Pete Principles
As a fervent disciple of “Tommy,” I nonetheless take issue with Townshend’s representing Tommy as an autistic child.
Tommy’s withdrawal from the physical world is induced by external trauma, as is his “cure.” Autism has its roots in biochemical or neurological dysfunction, not childhood trauma.
This syndrome occurs in about 1 of every 2,000 births, and I suggest that individuals who wish to obtain more information contact the Autism Research Institute in San Diego.
SHELLY HEBER
Los Angeles
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