Chickens possess a relatively short memory span of about twenty minutes, indicating a limited ability to recall past experiences. In contrast, humans often navigate life's challenges and stressors through various coping mechanisms, including substance use and denial. The suggestion here is that, by embracing denial more fully, one might endure hardships for a longer duration. This points to the different ways species process and forget traumatic or stress-filled moments.

Ellen Datlow's book, "The Best Horror of the Year Volume 3," encapsulates the stark contrasts between the simple lives of chickens and the complex emotional strategies that humans employ. While chickens may quickly forget their troubles, humans seem to confront life's fears and challenges with a unique blend of escapism. This perspective invites reflection on the nature of memory and the lengths to which beings will go to preserve their peace of mind.