In "Gathering Prey" by John Sandford, the narrative explores the protagonist's struggle with depression, portraying it as a looming threat. The metaphor used compares depression to a predator, lurking outside, ready to infiltrate his life. This creates a sense of urgency and distress, emphasizing the battle the character faces against his inner turmoil.
The imagery of depression as something to be feared deepens the understanding of mental health struggles. It highlights the constant vigilance required to guard against such feelings, illustrating how profoundly they can impact an individual's life. This depiction resonates with many readers who may have experienced similar feelings of dread and vulnerability.