Photo by Michelle Leman
Incorporating illnesses in literature is commonplace. A perfect example of which is Going… Going… by Jack Weaver, the story of a husband and his wife with dementia. While it’s a common theme, writing it shouldn’t be done carelessly.
Conflict is a fundamental element in every story. Without it, characters won’t have the reason or drive to go from one point to another, completing the story. Authors can choose from various types of conflicts. Some include characters clashing with each other, characters against society, or characters suffering from natural calamities.
Most books fall under the character vs. character trope—the protagonist vs. antagonist, good vs. evil. Two characters with opposing beliefs fight to claim the last word and win this mental competition between them. The crux of this conflict is the uncertainty and thrill regarding who will win, despite it traditionally being the protagonist.
But among all available conflicts, the most dramatic, heart-wrenching stories are presumably those with an internal conflict. The character vs. himself. The protagonist battles with no one but himself. This has to do with his decision, a dilemma, or nature. With all internal conflicts, the most fleshed-out ones include a character suffering from a condition. This genre quickly seizes readers’ hearts, whether it’s a chronic illness or a mental disorder.
Because who doesn’t cry for a suffering or dying man?
Illnesses in Literature
Authors have long been incorporating disorders and diseases in their stories. After all, characters suffering from something that can’t be dealt with quickly tug on any reader’s heart.
The portrayal of these conditions, physical or psychological, can go two ways. Some authors may highlight their disadvantages, while others may be more emphatic. Some books can highlight the suffering of patients, the people around them, and how the disease has affected their relationships. Others may center on victories and strength; how the characters have stayed resilient despite the adversary.
Going… Going… by Jack Weaver is a story of a husband and his wife with dementia. His book perfectly encapsulates both sides, showing the worst days and the little victories experienced by the patient and her loved one beside her.
If all authors were Jack Weaver, including a sensitive topic in books wouldn’t be an issue. With thorough research and preparation, there would be no problems representing and writing illnesses in literature.
However, in general, writing about these conditions can feel like fumbling around a dark space, most especially when the author doesn’t have personal experiences about these.
So, how should authors include illnesses in literature:
Research About the Condition
Before authors can plot any significant events, they must first create a character profile. Whether or not the illness plays an integral part in the story, authors must ensure that what they’re writing is factual.
Authors can’t simply throw in a medical condition without learning about its symptoms and treatment. While not every reader is familiar with these, it doesn’t mean authors can be lazy about the details. Accuracy in portraying these illnesses in literature is crucial.
Numerous resources are available to help authors be more knowledgeable about different conditions. They can read books, search for online articles, and maybe even videos and movies about the same sickness. Additionally, knowing more about the details will also help authors add more significant events throughout the story.
Make It Consequential
Authors shouldn’t be writing a character suffering from an illness just because it’s “in” or because it adds drama to the characters’ budding romance.
Every element incorporated in the story should be there for a reason. Nothing should be written and only be a prop for the story’s convenience. Else, it will make readers lost and confused by its presence. Not to mention, if anyone with the condition reads the book, it might end up offending them.
Not the Only Focus
While the illness needs to have a significant role in the book, it doesn’t have to take up everything about it. The character’s condition shouldn’t be their entire identity. It may affect parts of it, but it doesn’t encompass everything about their life. The authors don’t have to detail every part of his condition, from discovery to treatment. They’re writing a story, not a medical background.
