Addiction and the Recent American Novel

The exploration of addiction's evolution begins with historical accounts from individuals connected to substance use, whether as users or caregivers of addicts. These narratives reveal expressions of suffering and loss, shedding light on the changing perceptions of addiction over time. By analyzing these texts, the study uncovers how contemporary social norms and beliefs surrounding addiction have developed, ultimately illustrating its deep-rooted presence in Western society. The work emphasizes the importance of understanding the historical context to grasp current attitudes towards addiction.