Throughout the text, “Black Swans,” the author, Lauren Slater, emphasizes how she is affected by the condition, both positively and negatively. Initially, Slater reflects on her continuous struggles with mental health, with further deterioration. A vivid description of her first encounter with the disorder is effective, highlighting all details for better comprehension. As Slater recalls, this first time, it “felt like a seizure shook [her]” (Slater 30).
The inability to concentrate made her completely paralyzed in terms of thinking. Imagery is a complementary component that makes the woman’s experiences more straightforward and understandable. For instance, reflecting on how “the blue floor suddenly frightened [her]” adds depth to her narration and how Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD) had a significant impact on her mental well-being (Slater 30). By focusing on specific details, such as colors and environments, the writer effectively illuminates the condition’s power over her, making the imagery and description more impactful.
Meanwhile, while medication was mainly ineffective when treating the state due to mild or waning effects, Slater found her unique way of approaching OCD. Instead of viewing the disorder as a weakness and bane of her existence, she took control of her life. By recognizing the inner power, Slater took small steps toward autonomy and control, “cultivating appreciation for a few free moments” (Slater 44). Therefore, while OCD was initially a significant barrier to peace and satisfaction in life, the woman decided she was the only one who could change her destiny and seek happiness.
After reading the article, the readers can see that the central theme of the piece is one of control. The audience can see a drastic transformation of the author, growing from a woman “who would like to possess a mind free and flexible” but allowed the condition to make her desperate and accepting of the symptoms into someone who is not willing to give up and learns to appreciate what she has (Slater 44). As Slater mentions, “I’ve come to live my life in those brief stretches of silence that arrive throughout the day,” which is a significant indicator of her strength and control over her life (Slater 44).
In the end, the writer admits, “Part of me was still free, a private space not absolutely permeated by pain,” as opposed to being disappointed (Slater 44). In other words, the author is not oblivious and acknowledges the fact that her life would never be the way she wishes. With this in mind, readers gain insight into the author’s personal struggles to overcome the adverse effects of her illness.
Now, the woman was in control of her life, acknowledging its worth and exercising her right to choose her own course of action, even if she was still affected. Thus, this interpretation of the theme demonstrates that the author intends to show readers they are not alone in their struggles. If she could overcome such adversity, anyone is capable of mustering the strength to address the issues.
Work Cited
Slater, Lauren. “Black Swans.” The Missouri Review, vol. 19, no. 1, 1996, pp. 29-46.