Dec 27, 2009

Darkness Visible | Topics for Further Study

• Styron suggests that the onset of his severe depression came after he stopped drinking alcohol. Research the links between alcoholism and depression and discuss the ways in which the former may contribute to the latter.

• Write an essay exploring common psychological or physical diseases commonly associated with artists and writers.

• After interviewing people afflicted with emotional illness, write a short essay comparing their pain to the pain of those afflicted with physical illness. Draw on your own experience or that of people you know, if possible.

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