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VOL. 13, ISSUE 1 (2026)
Intrusive thoughts and the tenacity of the fragile self in John Green’s turtles all the way down
Authors
Adithya CL, Dr. R David Raja Bose
Abstract
This paper examines how intrusive thoughts
shape, disturb, and yet fail to erase personal identity in John Green’s Turtles
All the Way Down. Rather than portraying mental illness as a condition that
defines or diminishes the self, the novel presents identity as fragile but
persistent, continuing to exist within cycles of doubt, fear, and internal
repetition. By focusing on the character of Aza Holmes, the narrative reveals
how intrusive thoughts interrupt agency, relationships, and self-perception
while still allowing moments of awareness, choice, and connection. Through the
novel’s narrative voice and representation of thought spirals, this study
explores how psychological disruption becomes a lived experience rather than a
symbolic device. The paper argues that the novel resists both romanticization
and simplification of mental illness, instead offering a realistic portrayal of
endurance within instability. Thus, Turtles All the Way Down redefines
strength not as control over the mind, but as the continued presence of self
despite mental intrusion. This reading highlights the novel's relevance to
contemporary discussions of adolescence, identity, and mental health,
emphasizing resilience grounded in recognition rather than resolution.
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Pages:141-143
How to cite this article:
Adithya CL, Dr. R David Raja Bose "Intrusive thoughts and the tenacity of the fragile self in John Green’s turtles all the way down". International Journal of Multidisciplinary Research and Development, Vol 13, Issue 1, 2026, Pages 141-143
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