book reviews
Book reviews by and for those seeking to understand the human mind for all its strengths, quirks and shortcomings.
Literary Psychology: Minor Depression and Major Depression
One of the psychological aspects that often appear in literary works is mental disorders, especially depression. Depression can generally be categorized into two forms: minor depression and major depression. Minor depression is often described as a temporary feeling of melancholy or sadness that can be overcome. Meanwhile, major depression has more complex and profound characteristics, involving a loss of meaning in life as well as destructive tendencies, even to the point of suicide. Through the perspective of literary psychology, this psychological condition is constructed through characterisation, symbolism, and narrative structure. Literary works not only reflect human experiences, but also become an effective medium in describing various forms of mental disorders, character struggles, and the social impacts that arise due to mental health problems (Septiaji, 2025). By understanding the representation of depression in literature, we can gain deeper insights into its psychological impact and implications for readers and society.
By Aji Septiaji10 months ago in Psyche
The Metamorphosis of the Mind
Prologue Before the world begins to change around us, the most profound revolutions occur within. In the deepest chambers of the mind—where fears whisper, dreams flicker, and memories fold into silence—true metamorphosis takes place. This is the story of a man who, in forgetting who he was, learned who he could become.
By Malik Kashif10 months ago in Psyche
Do you know what the harms of drugs are?
Tobacco is made by drying the leaves and stems of the tobacco plant. Cigarettes are made by cutting and wrapping the dried leaves in special paper, and bindis and cigars are made by wrapping the leaves in special paper. The consumption of smoke and vapor from burning these is called smoking. Tobacco releases a substance called nicotine, which, as a narcotic, temporarily stimulates the nerves and harms the body in various ways. Smoking, in addition to nicotine, also causes some other toxic substances to enter the body. Cigarette smoke contains a significant amount of toxic gases, chemicals, and narcotics. These substances reduce the oxygen-carrying capacity of hemoglobin in the blood. It also contains several adhesives and hydrocarbons, which cause various diseases in the lungs (Figure 1.06), and even cancer.
By Arfan Raihen10 months ago in Psyche
The Forgotten Language of Touch: How Physical Contact Shapes Our Emotional Well-being
In a world dominated by screens and digital expressions, we have learned to communicate through messages, emojis, and reactions. We connect in online meetings, express love with virtual hearts, and offer condolences through comment sections. Yet, in our reliance on words and technology, we’ve drifted away from one of the oldest and most profound forms of communication—physical touch.
By Mysteries with Professor Jahani10 months ago in Psyche
The Invisible Weight: Living with the Emotional Baggage We Don’t Talk About
The Backpack No One Sees When my friend Julia died suddenly in a car accident, her husband, Mark, showed up to her funeral wearing a crisp suit and a smile that didn’t reach his eyes. He shook hands, accepted casseroles, and thanked everyone for their support. Two years later, at a dinner party, he casually mentioned he still sets a place for her at the table. The room fell silent. No one knew what to say—not because they didn’t care, but because grief, like so much of our emotional baggage, lives in the shadows.
By Mysteries with Professor Jahani10 months ago in Psyche
How Small Acts of Kindness Changed My Perspective on the World
The Day a Stranger’s Umbrella Taught Me About Humanity It was a gray, drizzly afternoon in Kyoto when I first grasped the quiet power of kindness. I stood outside a train station, drenched and frustrated, silently berating myself for forgetting my umbrella. Out of nowhere, a woman in her sixties—her silver hair peeking beneath a sunhat despite the rain—paused beside me. Without speaking, she opened her bright red umbrella and held it over both of us. We walked in silence for two blocks until she nodded toward my destination: a tucked-away tea shop. When I thanked her, she smiled and said, “The rain feels lighter when shared.” Her words lingered long after the clouds parted.
By Mysteries with Professor Jahani10 months ago in Psyche
The Importance of Staying True to Yourself
Introduction: In a world full of distractions, expectations, and pressures, it can be easy to lose sight of who you truly are. Society often pushes us to fit into molds that aren’t aligned with our true selves, whether it’s through social media, peer influence, or even family dynamics. But staying true to yourself is one of the most important things you can do for your personal well-being and fulfillment. Living authentically allows you to be at peace with who you are, attract the right people into your life, and pursue your passions without fear or regret. In this article, we’ll explore the significance of staying true to yourself and how embracing your authenticity can lead to a richer, more fulfilling life.
By Inside the soul10 months ago in Psyche
Why the World Needs More People with a Good Heart?
Introduction: In a world that often feels chaotic, divided, and sometimes unkind, one of the most precious gifts we can offer is a good heart. But what does it mean to have a good heart? It’s not about being perfect, or always doing the right thing. Rather, it’s about carrying kindness, empathy, and a genuine care for others, regardless of the situation. In a society that often emphasizes success, status, and material wealth, having a good heart is a silent but powerful revolution. People with good hearts offer something that is so desperately needed today — a chance for humanity to reconnect with its compassion. And this world needs more of them now than ever before.
By Inside the soul10 months ago in Psyche
