"One Flew Over the Cuckoo's Nest" by Ken Kesey explores the themes of individuality and oppression in a mental institution. The story reflects on how the characters navigate their realities within a restrictive system. The protagonist, Randle McMurphy, challenges the oppressive authority of Nurse Ratched, trying to inspire the other patients to reclaim their autonomy and sense of self.

The quote, "They can't tell so much about you if you got your eyes closed," suggests that by shutting oneself off from external judgment, individuals can maintain their inner world and privacy. This highlights the importance of self-awareness and personal agency amidst external pressures and societal expectations, reinforcing Kesey's message about the struggle against conformism and the pursuit of personal freedom.