Sometimes I heard voices muttering in my head, and a lot of the time the world seemed to smolder around its edges. but I was in a little better physical shape every day, I was getting my looks back, and my spirits were rising, and this was all in all a happy time for me. All these weirdos, and me getting a little better right in the midst of them. I had never known, never even imagined for a heartbeat, that there might be a place for people like us.
In Denis Johnson's "Jesus' Son," the narrator reflects on a time when he experienced internal turmoil, hearing voices and perceiving the world as smoldering. Despite these unsettling sensations, he notes a gradual improvement in his physical health, which leads to a boost in his self-esteem and overall mood. This juxtaposition of chaos in his mind with a newfound sense of well-being highlights the complexity of his emotional journey.
He finds himself amidst a diverse group of individuals, whom he refers to as "weirdos," and discovers a sense of belonging among them. This realization is striking for him, as he had never considered that a place could exist for people like himself. The narrative emphasizes the theme of resilience and the possibility of personal growth even in the midst of adversity, suggesting that community can play a vital role in healing.