In the book "Leaving Paradise" by Simone Elkeles, a character shares a stark and raw perspective on their recent experience of incarceration. They describe the harsh conditions of jail life, including the lack of privacy, poor quality of food, and the uncomfortable reality of sharing close quarters with various inmates. This vivid portrayal highlights the loss of personal dignity and autonomy in such an environment.

The character further emphasizes the disconnect between societal perceptions of reality and their own lived experiences. They illustrate the physical and emotional scars of trauma, specifically referencing a neighbor with a severe injury, which underscores the lasting impacts of their past. This narrative challenges the reader to reconsider what is deemed "real" and reflects a deeper understanding of hardship and resilience.