'Where Are You Going, Where Have You Been?' is a short story by Joyce Carol Oates. The story was first published in 1966 and has since become a classic of contemporary American literature. It is a psychological thriller that explores the themes of youth, beauty, and the dangers of vanity.The story centers around Connie, a 15-year-old girl who is growing up in a small town in the 1960s. Connie is a typical teenager, preoccupied with her appearance and longing for adventure. She spends her days hanging out with her friends, flirting with boys, and dreaming of escaping her small-town life.One day, Connie meets a man named Arnold Friend, who is older and more experienced than the boys she is used to. He is charming and charismatic, and Connie is immediately drawn to him. However, as their relationship progresses, Connie begins to realize that Arnold is not who he seems. He is a predator, manipulating and controlling her in order to satisfy his own twisted desires.The story explores the dangers that come with vanity and the desire for attention. Connie's vanity blinds her to the true nature of Arnold and puts her in a dangerous situation. The story also touches on the theme of the loss of innocence and the transition from childhood to adulthood. Connie's experience with Arnold forces her to grow up and face the harsh realities of the world.'Where Are You Going, Where Have You Been?' has been widely praised for its powerful storytelling and its exploration of complex themes. The story has been adapted into film, with the most famous adaptation being 'Smooth Talk' a 1985 film directed by Joyce Chopra. The story has also been the subject of much critical analysis, with many scholars examining its themes of youth, beauty, and the dangers of vanity.In conclusion, 'Where Are You Going, Where Have You Been?' is a short story by Joyce Carol Oates, published in 1966, which explores the themes of youth, beauty, and the dangers of vanity through the character of Connie, a 15-year-old girl who is growing up in a small town in the 1960s and her experience with a man named Arnold Friend. The story has been widely praised for its powerful storytelling and its exploration of complex themes, adapted into film and the subject of much critical analysis.