Stress And Criticism In Kostava's The Virgin Suicides

718 Words2 Pages

After analyzing each critics responses to The Virgin Suicides, Kostava really looked into the underlying message behind Eugenides words. Sweeney does not believe that the true reasoning behind the suicides was explained. Pearl and Collins view the tone as being complicated enough that it is too distracting for the reader to comprehend the plot. More in favor of the novel was Griffith who commended Eugenides on his unique writing style. However, Kostava analyzed each chapter the way the author wanted him to. Eugenides made the decisions the way he did in order to force readers to tie together each detail and event to conclude what the was reasoning behind the suicides. Kostava tied together the details about the depressing suburb, innocence …show more content…

That poor girl’s under so much stress, her appendix just blew up” emcompasses the book as a whole (Eugenides 152). All of the Libson girls were under a mass amount of pressure to live up to their parents and society’s standard. Their bodies could not account for the stress, leaving the girls no choice but to take their own lives. This exhibits the theme that pressure and stress can negatively put a toll on one’s body, driving them to actions they have not considered before. I fully concur with Eugenides 's theme in The Virgin Suicides, as teenagers are put under an abundance of stress. Society, including parents, are consistently pushing children to attain the standards established in order for everyone to discover their place in this world. Living your life is not about pursuing the paths of others, but instead following the unique guideway that destiny has outlined for each individual. Eugenides 's emphasizes that it is acceptable to be yourself instead of letting your surroundings force you into a stereotype. With this compelling message, I believe that this novel should continue to be read. Through the five Libson sisters, Eugenides allows readers to speculate the idea that being original and not granting others the ability to change your life. By following the author’s tips, life will advance you towards the pathway that destiny has prepared for

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