Unveiling Psychological Drama through Specters of Suffering and Tension
In the realm of fiction, authors have long explored the human capacity for dealing with trauma in unique and captivating ways. One intriguing trope that has emerged is the use of trauma ghosts, spectral entities that embody the lingering effects of past suffering.
V.E. Schwab's 'The Invisible Life of Addie LaRue' is a haunting story that delves into this concept. Addie, the protagonist, carries a burden of the past that has haunted her for centuries, a poignant picture of a soul trapped in time, seeking redemption and understanding.
Another compelling example is 'The Butcher and The Liar' by S.L. Woeppel. In this novel, the trauma ghost, Marina, appears in Daisy's room and stays with her for years, representing Daisy's shame and guilt. Marina, who is also a central character with her own past and demise, serves as a constant reminder of the impact of trauma on the subconscious.
Charlotte Bronte's 'Jane Eyre' also employs a living trauma ghost in the form of Bertha. Bertha's presence creates a significant conflict in the love story, symbolising Rochester's burden of the past.
Peter Straub's 'Ghost Story' follows four elderly men haunted by their past actions, with a paranormal shapeshifter named Eva tormenting them. The novel explores the idea of unresolved past traumas that continue to haunt individuals, even in their old age.
'Ask for Andrea' by Noelle W. Ihli tells a story from the perspective of the ghosts of three women who were killed by the same man, seeking justice. This novel uses the trauma ghost trope to address the lasting impact of violence and the pursuit of justice.
In 'The Lovely Bones' by Alice Sebold, the character Susie, after her own grisly murder, helps her family heal from the trauma of her death and addresses her own ability to accept her death and let go of her old life.
Lastly, in Natalia Hero's novella, 'Hum', a woman gives birth to a bird after a traumatic event, symbolizing healing and coping through trauma. This unique portrayal of a trauma ghost offers a hopeful perspective on the human capacity for growth and resilience.
These works of fiction, spanning various genres and time periods, demonstrate the far-reaching and diverse human capacity for dealing with trauma. They offer insights into the exceptionalism of the human mind and its ability to evolve, create, survive, and linger after death.
