Book Review: The Diving Bell and the Butterfly

Merely Me,

More than a humble review, a beautiful statement.  You're words have the power to touch others in such a meaningful way.

I did watch the movie version earlier this fall on cable (hadn't seen it previously).  I haven't read his book and might find it too powerful.  But sometimes we need to be bowled over by power and beauty, especially in the form of words.

Thank you.

I don't think I can say anything more, for myself, than thank you for your tribute to this man, your love for your children and the moving questions he generated then. Also for sharing those you've had to confront since symptoms of MS began for you.

I believe everyone who reads this, will be sitting on that beach as you wondered your future with the kids especially. Your children will always see, in some gesture of yours, the love you have for them, whether words, your eyes, or facial gestures, they will know.You've just told them here.

I have read this book, and as a matter of fact, read it while at the beach last summer.  I too feel it is well worth reading and a book that will really make you think.  This is perhaps most true because Bauby's humanness comes through.  He at times lets his self sorrow show so well,  and too, at other times,  his larger spirit.  Looking out over the blue water and somehow knowing he did the same seemed to bring it home even more.  All that beauty... so far away, and so deep inside.  Touchable and untouchable.

...and it was surreal and well done.  I am grateful that I am NOT dealing with that condition.  Makes my complaints seem so trite.

Joan

Hello Merelyme!

This review was marvelously uplifting to read.  To be able to have the opportunity provided by therapist was such a dazzling gift, and the fact that Jean-Dominque Bauby reached out and embraced the offering was like a burst of radiant light of a dark night.  Such indomitable spirit!

To reach out for the everyday activities and rituals of life displays an individual of great spirit, because it is these things that weave a fabric for love of life, of person, of humanity.

Thank you so much for this review.

Thanks for sharing this. I had not heard of the book before but not only does your account make one feel they have read it, but also they have lived it to an extent.

Like you I want normal conversations most of the time. There will always be the subject of MS and its effects to talk about, but living a life of somewhat normalcy also includes the daily conversations of life.

Great article!