Switching between technical readings and fiction, I decided to read "The Midnight Library" by Matt Haig. Although the title and the first few pages suggest a dark narrative, the storyline turned out to be engaging, possibly written with a screenplay adaptation in mind. The plot revolves around Nora Seed, a 35-year-old woman burdened with frustrations and regrets.
Nora, a piano teacher with only one student, suffers from depression, loses her job at a record store, and her pet cat. In her past, she was a promising swimmer, an aspiring philosopher and glaciologist, and had a music band. She also regrets calling off a wedding. After attempting to take her own life, she's "transported" to a peculiar library, guided by Mrs. Elm, an old librarian with whom she has a close bond.
In this library, Nora finds a book of regrets and several others that contain possible versions of her life. What if she had married? What if she had become a successful artist? What if she had chosen a different career? Throughout the book, Nora explores these alternative realities, discovering surprises in each choice. Without giving spoilers, each chapter is a journey of Nora's self-discovery.
The book reminded me of other references that address adopting different perspectives on life. One of them is a powerful reflection by Brazilian philosopher Clóvis de Barros, https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mRTipKvhwqY, where he discusses the illusion that choosing alternative paths could save us from sadness. He suggests that every choice brings more difficulties than moments of euphoria, indicating that happiness cannot be guaranteed by formulas. His realistic approach suggests that life will always have sadness, and the fewer expectations we have, the more we can enjoy moments of joy.
I also had the chance to read the classic "Pollyanna" with my daughter, written in the early 20th century by Eleanor H. Porter, which popularized the term for excessively optimistic people. Pollyanna always finds the positive side of things, using the "glad game." Even in the worst circumstances, she finds something good.
Another parallel on life perspectives is the concept of "fixed mindset" and "growth mindset," explored in-depth by Carol Dweck in her book "Mindset: The New Psychology of Success." The former believes our qualities are immutable or predetermined, which is limiting. The latter believes in change and development through effort and experience, allowing us to deal differently with life's challenges and failures.
Given these references, while the benefits of adopting a more positive and proactive perspective toward difficulties are evident, it's essential to recognize that for those immersed in extreme suffering, it may be hard to find the positive side of things. In these cases, support and compassion from those around them are crucial to bringing hope and relieving suffering.
Returning to "The Midnight Library," the book speaks about choices and how we deal with life's adversities. By exploring alternative realities, we're reminded that regardless of the path, there will always be challenges. Thus, the perspective we adopt is crucial to draw lessons from our experiences, ultimately contributing to our personal development.
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