How to Read a Book

Violet’s story illustrates the disorienting and isolating effects of imprisonment. She describes the invasiveness of being locked up, “Everything here is designed to murder your privacy” (1). Yet, when released, she is utterly alone. After months of confinement, she struggles to adjust to life on the outside, where the world has moved on without her. Her detachment from time and society demonstrates the consequences of incarceration as she struggles to function in even the fundamental areas of daily life. Eventually, Violet gathers the courage to leave the house but still fears forming new relationships and grapples with her sense of purpose. Violet’s psychological distress reveals how prison can deprive people of their identities, leaving them feeling confused and detached even after release.

Incarceration profoundly alters Violet’s sense of self. Before her imprisonment, she was a young woman with a future ahead of her. However, the time spent in prison forces her to confront her actions and their consequences. Yet, she is released from prison with no physical or emotional support to aid her in the transition back into society. Incarceration creates ripples that affect not only the individual but also their family and community. Violet’s imprisonment has damaged her relationship with her loved ones, particularly her sister,