Beth answers “I find Esther's descent into insanity a...”

Maddie asked this question about The Bell Jar:

I find Esther's descent into insanity a little rushed or hasty, but I have never experienced mental trauma like hers. Is it relatable to anyone else? Has anyone gone through what Esther is experiencing and could shed some light on this?

Beth Reading this book was an epiphany for me. I related so strongly to what was being described. The jar, the fig tree, the numbness of feeling like the e…moreReading this book was an epiphany for me. I related so strongly to what was being described. The jar, the fig tree, the numbness of feeling like the eye of the tornado of life, it all struck home and really helped me come to terms with parts of my inner life that I had always been terrified by and had kept hidden.

Like a few of my fellow posters, I believe that Esther's depression was pre-existent. Her struggles were heightened by the stifling circumstances of her life, but also seemed to become worse on occasion with no outside prompting (the bell jar descending). I can't speak for all people with depression (depression and snowflakes- all different), but mine comes this way as well. It is almost more cruel when there has been no precipitating event to blame or to use to explain your condition to others. The "jar" descends, and you are there, watching life but not experiencing it, wallowing in the stale air that you create. (less)

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