Stephen Grosz: The Examined Life

Overview of “The Examined Life”

“The Examined Life” is a compelling collection of case studies from Stephen Grosz’s own practice as a psychoanalyst.
The book provides insights into human behaviour and the unconscious mind through introspective narratives derived from years of therapy sessions.

Grosz’s Language Use

Grosz utilises a clear, unadorned prose that renders complex ideas accessible to the layperson.
His style is marked by his use of narrative storytelling, making each case study an engaging read.
Grosz’s language effectively communicates the underlying tension, pain, and revelations in his conversations with his patients which, in turn, highlight the transformative power of psychoanalysis.

Themes

Understanding Self: Grosz’s collection explores individuals’ attempts to understand and come to terms with their own actions, feelings, and past.
Denial and Acceptance: The book delves into how individuals deny certain truths about themselves and the cathartic experience of accepting these truths.
Interpersonal Relationships: The effect of individuals’ actions and behaviours on their relationships with others is a recurring theme in this book.

Characterisation

Grosz details a myriad of patient character types, each with their unique struggles and idiosyncrasies, thereby providing a diverse spectrum of human behaviour.
Unlike conventional narratives, the main characterisation in “The Examined Life” is of Grosz himself as the therapist- listener, observer, and guide for his patients.
His own character lends an air of professional detachment interspersed with deep empathy, giving readers a balanced and grounded insight into the narratives.

Setting

The spaces where Grosz’s therapy sessions take place, typically his therapy room, form the singular recurring physical setting of the book.
The setting is not central to the narrative, but Grosz’s descriptions of it emphasise its role as a safe space for introspection and understanding.

Remember to solidify your understanding by identifying and analysing important passages and quotes from the text. These can serve as vital evidence to support your interpretations or arguments during discussion or in essay writing. Also, consider how specific passages exemplify Grosz’s narrative style, theme exploration, and characterisation.