The Diving Bell and the Butterfly

Jean-Dominique Bauby

Fourth Estate; New Ed edition, 1988
ISBN-10: 1857027949
144pp

In essence, this novel is not primarily about its character, a medical condition or circumstance. 'The Diving Bell and the Butterfly' discusses divisions and constancy in existence, examining what experiences are integral to humanity.

Bauby's biographical account of Locked-In Syndrome is powerfully both reflective and reflexive. Describing his condition through a painstaking method of dictation, 'The Diving Bell and the Butterfly' is considered and measured, yet candidly responds to his condition through his use of language. His dictation (controlled by eye-blinks) shows dedication and intelligence in his sparkling, well referenced writing, a feat of patient-induced patience.

Bauby's humanity is evident through his writing style. Although his slow dictation removes humour and spark in his daily conversations, his character is abundant in his writing. This divide (and the gulf between his life before and after his illness) is amplified through his use of structure to contrast and compare experiences, emotions and reactions.

With a delicate, rhythmic style - snappy and poetic in turns - he outlines his existence and circumstances. This rhythm echoes Bauby's moods and refers to his memories to follow the passage of time and Bauby's ability. Slowing as his capability fades; the author begins to admit to a sense of sadness and finality.

Bauby finds his humanity through interaction - letters and visits anchor him and lead to his greatest concern being his investment in those people around him. The author shows a great tenderness for friends' co-operation, help and support; concluding that when all else is lost, emotion is a necessity. Bauby shows little bitterness towards his disability, he writes with warmth and thankfulness that through relationships he maintains his emotional ability.

Reality has become a shocking existence to both the author, those around him and eventually to the reader. Bauby makes us aware of our own existence through his narrative, describing a changing and evolving sense of self. Feeling that he 'belonged on a vegetable stall and not to the human race' (p.90), his thoughts and ideas are somehow abstracted from his physicality.

Bauby's relationship to reality is increasingly fragile.

Through dream like descriptions, Bauby suggests that reality is paired with sensation and he lacks this to root him to the world. His imagination is allowed to take over - consequentially his reality is not in the here and now. Bauby's imagination becomes a powerful tool in maintaining his quality of life, helping to overcome his isolation and loss of sensation.

Isolation here is not just bodily, but also in a lack of medical knowledge. Bauby's resulting dependence is almost childlike; exemplified by his increasing reliance on his imagination. His awareness of this makes the novel a success. The use of metaphors contrasts this unusual situation with a continuity of life, questioning the nature of humanity.

Through a compassionate translation from the French, Bauby's expressive details are able to combine in synergy - his dark humour and sincerity form a modest and open culmination. Although the author is clearly rooted in French culture his experiences are universally emotive. Bauby's writing is accessible and understandable, clearly communicating locked-in-syndrome through a beautifully crafted, skilful writing style.