A Close Reading and Critical Discussion of a Passage Selected From Part I of One Flew Over the Cuckoos Nest by Ken Kasey

Authors Avatar

A Close Reading and Critical Discussion of a Passage Selected From Part I of ‘One Flew Over the Cuckoo’s Nest’ by Ken Kasey

[Pages 3-5: They’re out there.....on the first morning of the week.]                                                 

Paying Particular attention to the creation of atmosphere in this extract, consider in what ways its themes and narrative style are characteristic of the novel as a whole.

The opening to ‘One Flew Over the Cuckoo’s Nest’ introduces a wide range of themes and ideas which are later developed by Kasey as the novel progresses. The way in which he portrays his ideas within the extract is unique and powerful as he uses a number of techniques such as figurative language, which allow the reader to produce an extremely vivid image of the atmosphere felt within the asylum. The narrative, provided by Chief Bromden, allows the reader to relate closely to the experience felt by those confined within the ward, and therefore sharpens the emotions and imagery put forth by Kasey. This form of narrative is extremely effective as the reader is continually able to completely immerse themselves within the lives of the patients, giving the book additional depth and realism.  

The proposal that horrific abuse is present in the ward is instantly planted by Kasey. Chief Bromden introduces the impression that the ‘black boys’ sexually violate patients within the hospital while the other patients sleep. The atmosphere presented is one of great oppression, the black boys are described as ‘hating everything’ giving a sense of pessimism and total lack of hope. Chief Bromden is described attempting to avoid the attention of the aides by creeping ‘along the wall quiet as dust’. This could be interpreted as an indication that after spending so long in the hospital any form of free will has disintegrated, hence the reference to dust. The religious idea that when a person passes away their body turns to dust could also be apparent here, those held on the ward are dead on the inside. Kasey creates an atmosphere of repression and sadness in which patients would rather become invisible than face the consequences of being singled out by workers within the ‘system’. This theme continues through much of the novel, with many of the patients still unwilling to step forward and challenge the authority present within the ward. McMurphy brings a sense of life back to those left empty, reinstating a sense of hope.

Join now!

The way in which Chief Bromden is treated by the aides is degrading and cruel. They deprive him of his humanity and treat him like an animal rather than a human being. Any dignity left within a patient is soon taken away, for example, they hand Bromden a mop and simply ‘motion to the spot they aim’ for him to clean. There is no compassion, it seems that within the hospital humanity has taken a step back and human rights no longer exist. A hellish image is created as the Chief sees the ‘eyes glittering out of the black faces’ ...

This is a preview of the whole essay