Isolation is another theme. The characters may feel cut off from the rest of society or their loved ones. In 'The Bell Jar', the protagonist feels alienated from the people around her, which exacerbates her mental turmoil. This sense of being alone makes the option of suicide seem more viable to them.
One common theme is mental illness. Often, the characters in these books are dealing with depression, anxiety or other psychological disorders that contribute to their suicidal thoughts. For example, in 'The Bell Jar', Esther Greenwood's struggle with depression is a central aspect.
The theme of stigma is also quite common. In books about depression and suicide fiction, characters may face judgment or misunderstanding from others. For instance, in some of these stories, when the main character tries to reach out for help, they are met with disbelief or dismissal. Another important theme is the internal battle. It's like there are two voices in the character's head - one that wants to fight and survive, and one that is overwhelmed by the depression and suicidal thoughts, as seen in many of these types of books.
The search for identity is also prevalent. Teens in school are trying to figure out who they are, and when they face setbacks or rejection, it can make them question their worth. In 'All the Bright Places', Finch struggles with his sense of self, which is intertwined with his mental health issues.
One common theme is despair. Characters who are suicidal in fiction often feel a sense of hopelessness, whether it's due to personal problems like lost love or financial ruin, or larger social issues. Another theme is isolation. They may feel alone and that no one understands them. For example, in 'The Catcher in the Rye', Holden Caulfield experiences a deep sense of alienation which is related to his dark thoughts. Also, redemption can be a theme. Sometimes a character's near - suicide experience leads them to a path of self - discovery and change.
The theme of isolation also comes up in relation to suicide in science fiction. When a character is stranded in space or on a desolate planet, they may experience extreme loneliness. This isolation can break their spirit and make them consider suicide. Think of a lone astronaut in a damaged spaceship, far from any hope of rescue, with the vastness of space around them as a constant reminder of their solitude.
Often, such stories deal with deep emotional pain and the struggle to find hope. They might explore the reasons behind the decision and the impact on those left behind.
One common theme is redemption. In both, there are characters with troubled pasts. In Suicide Squad, the villains are given a chance at redemption through their missions. Similarly, in Pulp Fiction, characters like Jules have moments of self - reflection and potential change. Another theme is violence. Both source materials have a fair amount of violence, and fanfictions often explore the consequences and implications of that violence.
On the other hand, it can also be a trigger for some. If a reader is already in a vulnerable mental state, the detailed descriptions of suicidal feelings and actions in these books might be too much. However, if read in a proper context and with the right support, it can be a form of catharsis. It can allow the reader to process their own feelings or those of someone they know who may be going through a tough time.
They usually aim to raise awareness. By portraying the experiences of those with depression or suicidal thoughts, books like 'Thirteen Reasons Why' make readers more aware of the signs and the impact of their actions on others. They also show how complex these issues can be.
One such book is '13 Reasons Why' by Jay Asher. It delves into the reasons a teenage girl chose to end her life through a series of tapes she left behind, exploring themes like bullying, peer pressure, and mental health issues among teenagers.