In "Darkness Visible: A Memoir of Madness," William Styron reflects on his experiences with mental illness, emphasizing how it affected his behavior. He describes how his deteriorating condition led to confusion and difficulties in concentrating, which are often recognized symptoms of severe mental health issues. This progression of his illness painted a vivid picture of the challenges he faced during this period of his life.

Styron's insights reveal the profound impact that mental illness can have on an individual's perception and cognitive functions. His acknowledgment of memory lapses highlights the often-overlooked reality that mental health struggles can manifest in ways that disrupt everyday life and thought processes. Through his candid narrative, he sheds light on the complexities of navigating mental health challenges and the stigma that surrounds them.