One of the things I worked very hard to make realistic was the fact that Jack was clinically depressed. I am a nurse myself so I have dealt with more than a few depressed/suicidal patients in my career. I like to think that conveyed what Jack was feeling and perhaps, educated a few people in the process. I had one critic tell me that Jack would never contemplate suicide (I guess because of his optimistic, outgoing personality) but frankly, I don't think that being optimistic makes you immune.
Hi Leslie,
I think you definitely succeeded in a realistic portrayal of clinical depression. I'm certainly no expert, but right from the first chapter I recognized that the amount of time Jack spent sleeping was a symptom. I also don't believe that "optimistic" people are immune from depression. In fact, I believe that a normally optimistic personality such as Jack may have been even more confounded when he found himself deep inside that black hole with no means by which to extricate himself - you can't just "happy think" your way out.
You're a nurse!
How wonderful - my experience with nurses has been so overwhelmingly positive and uplifting. My dad had a home health care nurse and, later, hospice nurses, and they all became so special to our family - truly angels of mercy, love and compassion.
On to Chapters 7 and 8 - which I found delightful (well, except for Roger Grindell). I was so proud of how Ennis handled himself with Grindell - it was a defining moment and served to make J&E's relationship stronger. I know there are many Roger Grindells in the world, but that doesn't make it easier for me to understand them.
So happy they took pictures of each other!
Is Ennis's wish for a picture of them kissing a bit of foreshadowing? I sure hope so!
The Interlude of Correspondence - another stroke of genius! I have a special fondness for epistolary novels - and was really delighted to see this! What a great way for us to gain important perspectives into the characters. I was impressed with the realism and natural flow of the postcards and letters - and I was so glad to see Junior sharing some private thoughts with Ennis. She is one smart girl. I'm looking forward to their visit.
Ennis shopping for curtains, considering paint samples, thinking about wallpaper -loved it!
Ennis helping Bobby with his fear of horses and giving riding lessons - perfect!
Of course, I loved their time with Hal - what a sweet, special man. I, too, am glad that Ennis has a friend.
I love how Tom found out about Ennis and Jack - you caught me off guard with that!
"“He doesn’t think we’re fuckin’ queers, he thinks we’re fuckin’ hot.”
“Damn straight, cowboy,” said Ennis. “’Cause we are.”I'll second that, Ennis - DAMN STRAIGHT!
Thanks - Marie
