"One Flew Over the Cuckoo's Nest" by Ken Kesey tells the story of Randle McMurphy, a man who fakes insanity to escape prison and ends up in a psychiatric hospital. The novel explores the oppressive environment created by Nurse Ratched, who symbolizes authoritarian control. McMurphy's defiance against her tyranny brings a sense of freedom and hope to the other patients, highlighting themes of individuality and rebellion against societal norms.

The famous quote, "One flew east, one flew west, one flew over the cuckoo's nest," reflects the different paths life can take and illustrates the journey of the characters within the story. It serves as a metaphor for the struggle between conforming to societal expectations and seeking personal liberty. As McMurphy fights for his and his fellow patients' autonomy, the quote encapsulates the essence of their quest for self-identity and liberation amidst confinement.