THE VALUATION OF VANISHING: SUICIDALITY AND PERCEIVED BURDENSOMENESS IN YANAGIHARA’S A LITTLE LIFE
Keywords:
Interpersonal Theory of Suicide, Perceived Burdensomeness, Psychological Deterioration, Suicide Ideation, TraumaAbstract
This paper explores the subtle depiction of death and suicidality in Yanagihara’s A Little Life. The novel stark scrutiny of trauma, chronic pain, and emotional isolation provides enrich premise for a psychological and literary intersection, particularly through its pivotal character, Jude St. Francis. Implementing Joiner’s framework centered on perceived burdensomeness, thwarted belongingness, and secured aptitude for suicide– this study endeavors to demystify the intricate psychological architecture of Jude’s collapsing mental health. Joiner’s theory elucidates these aspects that induce Jude’s suicidal conceptualization, but also underscore the systematic failure of interpersonal relationships to mend his perceived value and rapport. The research assesses how Yanagihara frames Jude’s cognitive deterioration, through chronicle form, silence, and corporeal discomfort, thereby altering the novel into a discourse on obscured affliction and institutional failure. This study additionally probes the reader’s role as testimony to anguish and conscientious involvement with fictional trauma.
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Copyright (c) 2026 Aima Ali (Author)
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