I am planning on writing a more in depth analysis of how mental illness is portrayed by the media and the arts in my Psychotic Psychiatry blog. But, since I know some of you rarely read it (this is not a rebuke) I wanted to share a brief description of how a short story impacted me. Conrad Aiken wrote a short story with the title of Silent Snow, Secret Snow. It is without a doubt, a masterpiece. There are countless symbolic images and I know that Conrad went to great effort to perfect this story. I was deeply impacted by it because it suggests that schizophrenia is a result of childhood neglect. I am not about to declare this to be a scientific fact. No one knows the cause of eccentric behavior. There is speculations, but no real proof. Still, this concept was more vivid when portrayed in the story. I was lured to believe in its reality.
Now, when I return to my parent's home I make an effort to leave the TV remote untouched. I avoid the temptation to check my e-mail. I sit with my mother. I ask her questions. I brush my finger through her hair, an action that she takes much delight in. I sing to her and make every effort to show her affection. There are moments I am disheartened. She has moments when she is somewhat connected with the outside world. There are other moments when I don't even know if she realizes I am there. But, my perspective has been dramatically alter since I finished Silent Snow, Secret Snow.
It is a short story, so it would only take a few minutes to read. I would suggest it.
1 comment:
I admire your response to what you read. The thing is, it is a good theory but one I don't know anything about so I can't comment on that aspect directly. Still, your actions go far beyond just trying to counteract the possible underlying cause of your mother's struggle. They are actions of love that show true care and concern for your mother. I think that's beautiful.
Post a Comment