Visions

How can we understand mental illness? What is the experience of someone who suffers from a mental illness? How should we treat those who suffer? What are some of the concerns that a person with a mental illness has? Visions, an essay collection by Phoenix, chronicling his experiences over many months and years, seeks to answer some of these questions by providing an immediate account. Inspired by a friend, Phoenix decided to sit down and write a series of essays, detailing some of his theories about mental illness, as well as his experiences while suffering from such symptoms as psychosis, mania, paranoia, and unstable moods. Phoenix's attempt was to make the experience of mental illness more accessible, and while Phoenix was not trying to overgeneralize the experience of those who suffer with a chronic disease, he did at least hope to offer some kind of insight. Throughout the book of essays, much is said, and raw and visceral experiences were captured. But perhaps what makes Visions a compelling entry into the world of literature, is the way in which the essays, through time, deal with really powerful themes, where an entire narrative gradually emerges, becoming a rich representation. Throughout the essays, Phoenix struggles not only with his mental illness, but also with finding the strength to accept himself and his identity, as well as his place in the world. At times raw and difficult, at other times humorous and philosophical, Phoenix hopes that his essays offer a new perspective on mental illness. He hopes that his vision is glimpsed, and that readers will be able to relate to his stories, as the essays form a coherent picture of the constant battles that one faces with a diagnosis. At the end of the day, all one can do is offer up hope to the world amidst human suffering, with the optimism, courage, and faith that this life is beautiful, and that there is so much that we can be, if merely we will let ourselves see.