"One Flew Over the Cuckoo's Nest," written by Ken Kesey, is a novel that explores themes of sanity, individuality, and the struggle against oppressive authority. The story is narrated by Chief Bromden, a half-Indian man feigning deafness and muteness in a mental institution. He describes the oppressive atmosphere controlled by Nurse Ratched, who represents the dehumanizing forces of institutional power. Through Bromden's eyes, readers witness the struggle between conformity and individuality, as well as the impact of mental illness on personal freedom.
The arrival of Randle McMurphy, a rebellious new patient, disrupts the established order within the ward. McMurphy challenges Nurse Ratched's authority and inspires the other patients to reclaim their identity and voices. His boisterous and carefree attitude injects life into the ward, creating a conflict between his desire for freedom and the rigid control of the institution. As he rallies his fellow patients, the story evolves into a powerful commentary on the nature of rebellion and the quest for self-identity.