A Delicate Exploration of Mother-Daughter Relationships in Rachel Aviv's 'You Won't Get Free of It'

The book "You Won't Get Free of It" by Rachel Aviv is a thought-provoking collection of six stories about mothers and daughters, each one shedding light on the intricacies of their relationships and the effects of mental health on their lives. Aviv, a Pulitzer finalist and renowned journalist, has a profound interest in human psychology, as evident in her previous book "Strangers to Ourselves". In "You Won't Get Free of It", she masterfully profiles six women, including Linda Bishop, who suffered a psychotic break, and Mary, whose delusions and paranoia were seemingly cured by chemotherapy. The stories in the book are not only about the mothers but also about the daughters, who often struggle with their own mental health issues. For instance, Hannah Upp, whose story opens the collection, suffered from fugue states that led to her eventual disappearance. Aviv compassionately chronicles her mother's desperate quest to find her. One of the most striking aspects of the book is Aviv's self-reflection on her own role as a journalist and a mother. She admits to having a "deficit of curiosity" about mothers in the past, which she has now remedied. This self-awareness is admirable, and it prompts a fascinating question: to what extent does a woman's motherhood - or lack thereof - contribute to her perspective as a writer? The book also explores the theme of "hide and seek" in mother-daughter relationships, where each woman tries to outdo the other in a game of cat and mouse. Aviv's own investigation into the life of novelist Alice Munro, who failed to protect her daughter from abuse, is a standout piece in the collection. Munro's story raises questions about the responsibility of mothers and the impact of their actions on their children's lives. While some claim that Munro knew about the abuse and chose not to act, Aviv's meticulous tracing of the abuse through Munro's writing suggests a more complex picture. Ultimately, "You Won't Get Free of It" is a nuanced exploration of mother-daughter relationships, mental health, and the complexities of human psychology. Aviv's masterful storytelling and self-reflection make this book a must-read for anyone interested in these themes. ### The Complexity of Mother-Daughter Relationships The book highlights the intricate dynamics between mothers and daughters, where each woman tries to outdo the other in a game of cat and mouse. Aviv's own investigation into her own mother's behavior and her own role as a mother is a testament to the complexity of these relationships. ### Mental Health and the Impact on Lives The stories in the book are not only about the mothers but also about the daughters, who often struggle with their own mental health issues. Aviv's compassionate portrayal of these women and their struggles is a powerful reminder of the importance of mental health support and awareness. ### A Nuanced Exploration of Human Psychology "You Won't Get Free of It" is a nuanced exploration of human psychology, delving into the complexities of mother-daughter relationships, mental health, and the impact of these factors on lives. Aviv's masterful storytelling and self-reflection make this book a must-read for anyone interested in these themes.