* Autobiography: Written by the subject themselves, offering a firsthand, personal account of their life. It's a deeply subjective experience, filled with the author's own thoughts, feelings, and interpretations.
* Biography: Written by someone else about the subject's life. It aims for objectivity, using research and interviews to present a balanced and comprehensive view of the subject's life and accomplishments.
Here's how these differences apply to "A White House Diary" by Lady Bird Johnson:
* Personal Perspective: The diary entries give an intimate glimpse into Lady Bird Johnson's thoughts, feelings, and experiences during her time in the White House. It's not a complete account of her life, but a selection of personal reflections and observations.
* Subjective Interpretation: The diary reflects Lady Bird's own views on events and people, offering a personal and often emotional perspective.
* Limited Scope: As a diary, it only covers a specific period of Lady Bird's life, focusing on her time in the White House.
While a biography on Lady Bird Johnson would aim for a broader scope, encompassing her entire life and offering a more comprehensive and objective account, "A White House Diary" provides a unique and invaluable glimpse into the personal experiences and thoughts of a First Lady during a pivotal moment in American history.