Unholy Ghost: Writers on Depression

I do not suffer from depression, but have always been interested in knowing what it is like, what people feel like, how do they go on? The depictions here are as varied as people are and there is no one way of feeling or looking at depression. Some of the chapters are chilling and frightening in the manner that the people either manage to cope or delude themselves that they are coping. Larry McMurty's desciption of loss of "self" after surgery was terrifying. Do not read it all at once. You need to dip in and out or it becomes, well, depressing. Each writer has his or her own strengths and some are strong and a few fairly weak in the writing at times, selfish. It is as if they have not yet found a reconciliation to the depression. I suppose that is one point. William Styron followed by his wife Rose Styron are beautiful writers, William fierce and curious and Rose soft and melodic. It is unavoidable to think, however, that they lead such a privileged life, one wondered how anyone could succumb to depression. Lee Stringer was laugh out loud and weep at the same time in his efforts to move forward. There are no answers, but definitely some clarity and grateful acceptance of where we are at in this life.

This collection of essays by over twenty authors who have suffered from depression or have family members who have suffered illuminates this illness in ways a clinical account cannot. These authors provide vivid descriptions of depression's daily toll and the havoc it wreaks on their mental states and personal relationships that bring the illness to life for those who has never experienced it. As one would expect, all of the essays are well-written, illuminating, engaging and persuasive. I only wish more space was devoted to specific encounters and conversations with others to further demonstrate how depression manifests itself in attempts at communication.

This book is a complete necessity for writers who suffer from depression, and also anyone else who is seeking information on how depression effects those who suffer from it. Each chapter is different, and from writers who deal with depression, or their loved ones who have suffered from this debilitating condition. Fascinating and informative, and also written with compassion and understanding. A necessity on my bookshelf. Highly recommend it, for those who are depressed, or those who want to understand someone they love who has dealt with this issue. A must read, absolutely.

It was fun to read thoughtful, insightful, and brilliant analyses of depression from famous people who suffered from it. Reading their carefully-chosen words -- contrasting the ability different people had to describe their experiences -- all interesting. Recommended.

For those not afflicted with this malady, it can be difficult to understand. What this book offers, better than any book I have read on the subject, is the varied experiences of those who have suffered from depression. What the reader gathers from reading the various accounts, is that this really is a personal illness, and that there isn't a "one size fits all" solution for coping with the "despair beyond despair." I think with the publication of such books, along with "Darkness Visible," those who have felt marginalized by depression will at least be given a more sympathetic ear. A must read.

A moving compilation of essays by people who really know how to convey their struggles to overcome their mood disorders.A troubling note: my copy did NOT have the normal cover. The book was intact, but was covered with a paper binding that reads, "UNCORRECTED PROOF NOT FOR SALE." I'm not sure if the seller procured this book by entirely credible means.

As a man who has been depressed all my life, whether I knew it or not, Unholy Ghosts expresses so much of what I have felt all these years. It helps me realize that I am not the only on and that there are some who can put depression into words. I recomend it for anyone living with their own depression or living with someone who is depressed.

Great read.

Unholy Ghost is one of the best books I have ever read. The book contains the thoughts and experiences of people who have stood at the edge. Some even stepped off, but were swept back onto land by the winds of fate. The beauty of this collection of accounts of depression lies in the fact that every contributor knows how to write - knows how to communicate their message to the reader. I'll read it again.

One of the best depictions of depression I've ever read. Written from many insightful writers who've experienced depression first hand. Also in great condition !

Arrived on time and in good condition. The book is enlightening, difficult to read at times because of the subject matter and the honesty. But awesome!

Varied and well-written essays proved insightful for this reader.