A mental illness doesn’t define you.

This Blog post accompanies my Podcast episode “A mental illness does not define you, a theme of my thriller horror novel,” of my Podcast “Schizophrenia As I Live It, Parts 1&2.”

Exploring the intricate dance between myth and mind, my latest podcast episode, “A mental illness does not define you, a theme of my thriller horror novel,” offers listeners a glimpse into my upcoming horror thriller novel, “Three Kidnapped, Three Siblings, Three Furies.” Set against a small East Texas town backdrop, the book promises a blend of suspense and Greek mythology, with a heroine, Isabel Morse, living with paranoid schizophrenia.

The podcast not only previews the novel but delves into the complex portrayal of its protagonist, Isabel Morse, an academic classicist with paranoid schizophrenia. The conversation touches on the stigmatization of mental illness and the multidimensional lives of those it affects. I emphasize that Isabel, while managing her schizophrenia, is defined not by her condition but by her passions, friendships, and the rich tapestry of her experiences.

Listeners are introduced to the novel’s harrowing premise: the abduction of three teenagers in a town terrorized by an unknown horror. As the narrative unfolds, it becomes clear that Isabel’s expertise in Greek mythology is pivotal to unraveling the kidnapper’s cryptic game. This elevates her role beyond the stereotypes of schizophrenia, showcasing her as a vital figure in the race against time to save the missing children.

The podcast further highlights the theme of sibling abuse, which forms the core of the novel’s mystery. I discuss my approach to this sensitive subject, ensuring authenticity through extensive research and empathy drawn from real-life accounts. Using Greek myths as an allegorical device to confront and navigate the horrors of abuse is innovative and poignant, revealing the depths of human suffering and the cathartic power of storytelling.

In sharing my writing process, Dirkby reveals the meticulous research undertaken to accurately depict schizophrenia, sibling abuse, and the rich tapestry of Greek mythology. The conversation also touches upon the collaborative relationship between Isabel and Father Lewis, her Catholic priest friend, symbolizing the intersection of different belief systems and the universal quest for truth.

As the podcast episode draws close, I invite listeners to engage with my previous work and the ongoing discourse surrounding schizophrenia. The restructured website is mentioned as a hub for her blog and podcast, further connecting with the audience seeking depth and understanding in mental health narratives.

The episode serves as a testament to the resilience of the human spirit and the unyielding quest for light amidst darkness. It is a narrative that resonates with anyone who has grappled with personal demons or sought solace in the myths that shape our understanding of the world. My podcast episode bridges fiction and reality, inviting listeners to reflect on the multifaceted nature of the human experience.

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