Carole 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?

Carole I don't think that the book is made to be a detail of life before, during and after. When I read Bell Jar I feel she's describing those Bell Jars she …moreI don't think that the book is made to be a detail of life before, during and after. When I read Bell Jar I feel she's describing those Bell Jars she refers to as little snow globes that are a cute representation of a scenic life, but are really empty. The kind that make you think "What is the point of living in this if we are all going to die without really accomplishing anything?"

I'm obviously not Sylvia, but when I read the book it felt like she sat down and just started writing down memories in a sequential order. The meanings of those memories as an over-arching theme is (I guess) up to you to decide.

I wouldn't call her 'insane', just clinically depressed. She is always aware of everything that is going on.
(less)

flag

View all 4 comments

Carole I do agree with you, Donovan, that you can be cognizant and psychotic at the same time. I like to think of insanity in terms of how "appropriate" or r ...more
Aug 13, 2015 11:24PM · flag

Donovan Having experienced psychosis personally, "appropriate," "reason," and "logic" are extremely relative to the psychotic. It's whether those actions and ...more
Aug 14, 2015 08:52AM · flag

About Goodreads Q&A

Ask and answer questions about books!

You can pose questions to the Goodreads community with Reader Q&A, or ask your favorite author a question with Ask the Author.

See Featured Authors Answering Questions

Learn more