The Jarrett's have always considered themselves to be ordinary individuals, but their lives are drastically altered after the tragic drowning of their eldest son, Jordan "Buck" Jarrett, and the subsequent suicide attempt by their second son, Conrad. Upon Conrad's return from a mental institution, he perceives a shift in his family dynamics. Depression is a prevailing theme within this novel, persistently present and capable of evoking a sense of sorrow within the reader. Nevertheless, this emotional state is crucial for comprehending the intricate complexities that permeate this family. Throughout the narrative, Conrad's relationship with his parents undergoes transformations. The Jarretts do not conform to a typical notion of ordinary people, leading to conflicts that resonate throughout the novel.
When Conrad returns home, his relationship with his
...parents is awkward. He feels like his father is constantly monitoring him for any signs. Although both parents love Conrad, they express it differently. Conrad's father is more concerned about him compared to his mother. Cal believes that open communication can heal their wounds, while Beth wants to move on from the past. During a conversation with Dr. Berger, Conrad reveals that his father does most of the worrying, as he blames himself for Conrad's suicide attempt. Despite knowing logically that it wasn't his fault, Cal still believes he should have been more attentive. This is usually a role fulfilled by a mother towards her son, but Calvin is not a typical parent. On the other hand, Beth thinks that Cal worries excessively about Conrad and believes he is trying to hurt her. Conrad expresses to Beth that he would be more open if he believed she cared. He also
accuses her of being the one trying to hurt him. Clearly, Conrad believes Beth does not care for him. It is apparent that Beth does not fit the mold of a conventional mother who is supposed to be affectionate and nurturing towards her children.Conrad's release of emotions occurs when his mother confronts him regarding his departure from the swimming team. He candidly expresses his thoughts to Beth, criticizing her choice to travel to different countries instead of visiting him at the mental institution. Post-conflict, Conrad confides in his father, informing him of Beth's disdain towards him, and resigns himself to the belief that there is nothing he can do to change it. Conrad perceives Beth as an unforgiving individual, doubting she will ever pardon his suicide attempt. Beth accuses Cal of excessive protectiveness towards Conrad and being unaware of her own sentiments. Later on, Conrad realizes his mother's trepidation towards strangers. Beth's apparent apathy towards Conrad stems from viewing him as an unfamiliar entity. The Conrad that Beth knew would never endeavor to take his own life. The Jarretts deviate from normalcy; Conrad possesses a disposition towards self-harm and insecurity, unable to constructively manage his emotions, frequently leading to predicaments. Calvin assumes a motherly role towards Conrad due to Beth's negligence. Constantly doting on Conrad and trying to assist him, Calvin ultimately reaches a breaking point, questioning his love for Beth. Beth, as Conrad's mother, fails to adhere to traditional motherhood expectations, opting for withdrawal from Conrad's life and choosing not to participate actively. Her strong bond with Buck, who died in a boating accident, intensifies her inability to forgive Conrad for his suicide attempt
and the anguish she experienced as a result.The Jarretts may appear to be normal individuals, however, internally they bear profound emotional wounds and possess exceptional qualities.
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