Dissatisfaction Quotes in Ordinary People

People going through depression need motivation in the morning because bed and sleep are cozy and safe. But this first line makes us wonder if this is a novel or a self-help book. It's a novel, but Conrad Jarrett is in need of some help, which he'll have to get himself.

One symptom of depression is no longer enjoying activities you used to enjoy. It's difficult to say if this is why Conrad quits swimming. But he needs to continue to swim, metaphorically, in order to keep his head about the figurative water and not drown in depression.

Conrad's go-to strategy for anything is to avoid it. By not confronting anything, he avoids being disappointed or letting anyone else down. It seems logical, but it means he misses out on doing a lot of things and having a lot of important interactions with friends and family members.