Janet asked this question about The Women:
Did anyone else find the “Henry” character unbelievable? He’s a psychiatrist, she ‘hits the ground’ in front of him when she hears fireworks, and he doesn’t see that she has issues??
Suraj Paul The portrayal of Henry's character in this specific scene might indeed raise some eyebrows for readers. It's reasonable to question why a trained psyc…moreThe portrayal of Henry's character in this specific scene might indeed raise some eyebrows for readers. It's reasonable to question why a trained psychiatrist, especially one specializing in treating veterans, wouldn't recognize Frankie's extreme reaction to fireworks as a sign of deeper trauma. The scene could be interpreted as a missed opportunity to delve into the complexities of PTSD and the challenges faced by veterans in reintegrating into civilian life.

However, it's also possible that the author intentionally chose to portray Henry in this way to highlight the limitations of even professional understanding when it comes to the invisible wounds of war. It could also serve to emphasize Frankie's own denial and reluctance to confront her trauma, even when it manifests in such a dramatic way.

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by Kristin Hannah (Goodreads Author)
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