Depression In Speak By Laurie Halse Anderson

188 Words1 Pages
Depression is the unspoken theme that defines Melinda's behavior for much of the novel (speak). Laurie Halse Anderson once said in an interview, "I've learned that Speak is not just a book about rape. Depression is the unspoken theme that defines Melinda's behavior for much of the novel. Speak is a book about depression." While Melinda does show some obvious external signs, such as cutting her wrist with a paperclip, much of Melinda's depression is internal and is not fully understood by anyone, including herself. Her behavior issues stem from her depression and her lack of desire to actively engage in her life. Her lip chewing habit acts similarly to cutting her wrist: the physical pain from biting her lips helps her to temporarily forget