Books matching: depression and madness
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- #1
Save:The Bell Jar by Sylvia Plath is a haunting and beautifully written novel that delves into the descent of Esther Greenwood into madness and depression. The story follows Esther, a young woman with a bright future, as she struggles with her mental health, ends up in a psychiatric ward after a suicide attempt, and navigates her way back to normalcy. Plath's writing style is described as poetic, vivid, and sparse, perfectly capturing the delicate yet powerful essence of the subject matter.
The book provides a raw and honest portrayal of depression, mental illness, and the societal pressures faced by women in the 1950s America. Plath's storytelling is poignant, dark, and at times morbidly funny, offering a deep insight into Esther's internal struggles and the challenges she encounters on her journey towards self-discovery and recovery.
It was a queer, sultry summer, the summer they electrocuted the Rosenbergs, and I didn’t know what I was doing in New York. I’m stupid about executions. The idea of being electrocuted makes me sick, a... - #2
Save:A story of a sex addict who scams good samaritans by pretending to choke in restaurants and allowing himself to be 'saved', in order to pay for his mother's hospital care. The book delves into themes of depression, madness, and hopelessness, with a plot that is both bizarre and twisted. The writing style is described as raucous, satiric, and scatalogical, focusing on an antihero named Victor Mancini who seeks support and financial aid from strangers while dealing with his own addictions and subversive behavior.
There has to be something better on television. Or since you have so much time on your hands, maybe you could take a night course. Become a doctor. You could make something out of yourself. Treat your... - #3
Save:'Suttree' by Cormac McCarthy is a novel that follows Cornelius Suttree, a man who abandons his affluent family to live among outcasts along the Tennessee riverfront in Knoxville. The book delves into the episodic experiences of Suttree as he interacts with a variety of eccentric characters living on the fringes of society, showcasing a mix of tragedy and hope. McCarthy's writing style in 'Suttree' is described as dense, wordy, and filled with rich prose that vividly recreates the setting of Knoxville in the 1950s.
The novel is praised for its profound and surreal prose that transports the reader to the South, blending grim descriptions of poverty with punctuations of humor. It is noted for its depiction of Southern Gothic elements and the character of Cornelius Suttree, who leads a simple life as an impoverished fisherman amidst a cast of shady characters. The book is considered a must-read for fans of Southern literature, offering a unique exploration of societal outcasts and the complexities of human nature.
Peering down into the water where the morning sun fashioned wheels of light, coronets fanwise in which lay trapped each twig, each grain of sediment, long flakes and blades of light in the dusty water... - #4
Save:Danny and his parents move into a large hotel in Colorado to caretake over the winter shutdown period. Danny's father, an author, intends to use the solitude to write his new novel. However, the hotel is haunted by spirits that begin to influence Danny's father, leading to a fight for survival for Danny and his mother. The book explores the psychological breakdown of the characters, particularly Jack, and the slow decline of their family amidst dark forces at play in the hotel.
The story is a slow creeping horror that gets under your skin, creating a haunting effect with imagery and ideas that linger long after reading. It delves into themes of alcoholism, supernatural occurrences, and the psychological turmoil of the characters, especially the inner dialogue of the family members portrayed in a realistic and terrifying manner.
Ullman stood five-five, and when he moved, it was with the prissy speed that seems to be the exclusive domain of all small plump men. The part in his hair was exact, and his dark suit was sober but co... - #5
Save:'Convenience Store Woman' by Sayaka Murata is a quirky and atmospheric novel that delves into the life of Keiko, a woman who has worked at a convenience store for 18 years. Keiko finds comfort and satisfaction in her job, despite societal pressures to conform and lead a more traditional life. The book explores themes of societal norms, individuality, and the struggle to fit in, all through the lens of Keiko's unique perspective. The writing style is described as fresh, simple, and emotionally charged, making it a quick and absorbing read that leaves a lasting impression on the reader.
A convenience store is a world of sound. From the tinkle of the door chime to the voices of TV celebrities advertising new products over the in-store cable network, to the calls of the store workers, ... - #6
Save:'Outerbridge Reach' by Robert Stone follows the story of Owen Browne, a middle-class Vietnam veteran who embarks on an around-the-world solo sailing race in search of greater things. As Owen navigates the challenges of the race, the novel delves into themes of adventure, madness, and the darkness that resides within the human heart. Alongside Owen's journey, the story also explores the complexities of relationships, betrayal, and confronting personal demons, particularly through the characters of Owen's wife, Anne, and a documentary filmmaker named Strickland. The plot weaves together elements of tragedy, existential introspection, and the American spirit of resilience, culminating in a riveting and emotionally charged narrative that captivates the reader.
The writing style of 'Outerbridge Reach' is described as beautifully transparent, effectively capturing themes of solitude, fear, and the imagination. The author skillfully navigates between vivid scenes ashore and afloat, enticing the reader with a strong story that illuminates the struggles and desires of the characters. Despite the dark and sometimes depressing undertones of the novel, the writing maintains an engaging quality that draws the reader into the inner turmoil and external challenges faced by the characters.
THAT WINTER was the warmest in a hundred years. There were uneasy jokes about the ozone layer and the greenhouse effect. The ambiguity of the weather made time seem slack and the year spineless. The a... - #7
Save:Fight Club by Chuck Palahniuk is a gripping exploration of masculinity, materialism, and the human condition. The novel delves into the expectations placed on men in society, offering a compelling examination of reality and existence. With a plot twist that shocks readers and characters that are both unlikeable and unforgettable, the book presents a dark and thought-provoking narrative. Palahniuk's writing style is described as well done, with a mix of intense moments, wit, and vivid storytelling that haunts readers long after they finish the book.
TYLER GETS ME a job as a waiter, after that Tyler’s pushing a gun in my mouth and saying, the first step to eternal life is you have to die. For a long time though, Tyler and I were best friends. Peop... - #8
Save:'The Lives of Tao' by Wesley Chu is a sci-fi novel that revolves around Roen, an out-of-shape, unlucky IT worker who becomes possessed by an ancient alien named Tao. The aliens, known as Quasing, have been on Earth for millions of years, inhabiting hosts to survive and manipulating human history to develop technology for their return home. Roen, an unlikely host, must team up with Tao to fight against the opposing faction of aliens, the Genjix, while navigating self-discovery and self-improvement through their symbiotic relationship.
The book combines elements of spy thriller, science fiction, and coming-of-age story as Roen transforms from a directionless nerd to a confident agent under Tao's guidance. The story delves into themes of self-confidence, courage, and the struggle between two alien factions using humans as pawns in their intergalactic conflict, all while maintaining a humorous and engaging narrative style.
I once wrote, “Whatever has come to be has already been named, and it is known what man is, and that he is not able to dispute with one stronger than he.” The humans refer to that stronger being as Go... - #9
Save:'The Bleeding Season' by Greg F. Gifune is a dark and haunting tale set in a small coastal town in Massachusetts. The story follows a group of friends who are mourning the loss of their friend Bernard, who committed suicide. As they uncover a suicide note left by Bernard, they are drawn into a journey filled with darkness, secrets, and introspection. The writing style of the author is described as almost lyrical at times, with well-developed characters and an engaging plot that delves into themes of evil, damaged individuals, and the complexities of human nature.
I didn’t know it then, but it was impossible to survive the darkest corners of his mind without first surviving the darkest corners of my own. I was headed for the same depths of Hell he had descende... - #10
Save:'Whatever' by Michel Houellebecq is a short novel that delves into themes of manic depression, apathy, cynicism, and societal alienation. The unnamed narrator, a lonely computer programmer in Paris, navigates a world where he struggles to connect with others, indulges in self-destructive behaviors, and contemplates the emptiness of modern existence. Through a series of cynical and nihilistic observations, the protagonist explores the impact of sexual liberalism on society, highlighting the struggles and failures of individuals in a competitive and detached world.
Friday evening I was invited to a party at a colleague from work’s house. There were thirty-odd of us, all middle management aged between twenty-five and forty. At a certain moment some stupid bitch s...
