In Ken Kesey's novel "One Flew Over the Cuckoo's Nest," there is a vivid image of pigeons anxiously moving along the sidewalk, their hands clasped behind their backs. This scene symbolizes the oppressive environment in which the characters find themselves, reflecting their frustration and confinement as they navigate the rigid routines of the mental institution. The pigeons' behavior serves as a metaphor for the lack of freedom and the struggles against authority faced by the inmates.

This portrayal emphasizes the theme of control and the impact of societal expectations on individual behavior. The pigeons, much like the patients, are portrayed as trapped and restless, highlighting the struggle for autonomy and self-expression. Through such imagery, Kesey critiques the dehumanizing forces of institutionalization and the broader societal norms that stifle personal liberation.