Plot: Myra's visit – Higher English SQA Revision

Plot: Myra’s Visit

In The Trick is to Keep Breathing by Janice Galloway, Myra represents a pivotal character in Joy’s life.
The narrative unfolds to reveal Myra’s visit to Joy deep in her depression, thus showcasing the stark contrast between the two women’s personalities and ways of dealing with emotions.
Myra’s impractical solutions for her friend’s trauma contrasts greatly with Joy’s painful reality, revealing the insensitivity and misunderstanding society often displays towards mental health issues.

The dialogue between Myra and Joy works to highlight the vast chasm in their understanding and handling of grief: one trying to maintain a facade of normality, the other unable to escape the shadows of her past.
Myra’s conversation style, favouring small talk, and her failure to tackle the root of Joy’s problems show the immense struggle Joy faces in finding support and empathy.
Joy’s internal responses to Myra’s one-sided conversation expose the raw reality of depression: twenty-four-hour loneliness that is not alleviated by mere social calls.

Myra’s trivial advice and lack of true understanding become emblematic for society’s view on mental health, thus exposing the lack of effective communication regarding such vital issues.
The scene serves as a turning point where Joy realises the extent to which her depression isolates her, reinforcing the themes of alienation and loneliness.
Myra’s visit ignites a small spark of resentment within Joy, which eventually fuels her journey towards self-awareness and a desperate bid for resilience.

Isolation: Myra’s superficial visit highlights the depth of Joy’s isolation and loneliness.
Misunderstanding: The disconnect between Myra’s chatter and Joy’s traumatic reality illustrates society’s often ignorant approach to mental health issues.
Resilience: This scene motivates Joy towards overcoming the obstacles within her mind, kindling a desire to take charge of her life.

“Myra, please understand.” - Joy’s plea subtly highlights her desperate need for someone to truly grasp her pain.
“It’s just a phase.” - Myra’s insensitive comment mirrors society’s tendency to downplay the severity of mental health issues.
“Enough of the silence.” - Symbolises Joy’s frustration with her solitude, also acting as a metaphor for her own struggle to voice her emotional turmoil.