Flirting With Suicide

The stories I’ve read this week converge around the topic of death, centered specifically on suicide. The two pieces act as counterpoints to one another, offering views from both sides of life. The lives of the main character in both narratives are strangely similar. However, subtle details in each girl’s life made the difference in determining which side of the line they landed on.

What I’ve Written:

What Do You Want To Be When You Grow Up | NineOverFour

This essay started as a mock college admissions essay. I wanted to jokingly highlight the benefits of being a stay-at-home dad while showing off my qualifications for the job. However, the essay turned into contemplative look into my childhood dreams and how those goals evolved throughout my life.

What I’ve Read:

Split Image | ESPN

This story pieces together a young woman’s life through memories from her family, friends, and Instagram pictures. The tragic narrative that Kate Fagan paints reminds me of Everything I Never Told You. As I mentioned in a previous update, the pressures and emotions that Madison faced could be pulled directly from the book. It’s coincidental that I’ve found an actual example to what I had written.

The Semicolon Project | hpwritesblogs

Heather starts off her blog in a similar way to me, writing about her tattoo. Although, I have to admit, the reasons behind her tattoo are more virtuous than mine. She lays herself metaphorically bare on the page by sharing her experiences with depression and suicidal thoughts. I’m in awe of her courage to write and glad that is able to find support for her demons.

Some Practical Thoughts on Suicide | The Blog of Author Tim Ferriss

This post is one that I’ve read a few weeks ago. However, it’s relevance to The Semicolon Project and the topic of suicide puts it on the list this week. Tim Ferriss shows vulnerability in his own moments with academic pressure and depression. He echoes Heather and advises people dealing with suicidal thoughts to seek help.

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