Candy In One Flew Over The Cuckoo's Nest
One Flew Over the Cuckoo's Nest is a novel written by Ken Kesey, first published in 1962. The book is set in a mental institution in Oregon, and is narrated by "Chief" Bromden, a Native American patient who has been in the hospital for years. The story is about the conflict between the patients and the staff of the hospital, and the struggle for power and control.
Candy and Her Role in the Story
Candy is a young woman who is brought to the hospital by one of the patients, Billy Bibbit. She is described as being beautiful and sexually promiscuous. She is also addicted to drugs and is often seen with a lollipop in her mouth.
Her role in the story is primarily as a symbol of sexual freedom and rebellion. She represents the patients' desire for independence and their rejection of the strict rules and regulations of the hospital. Her presence in the hospital is a threat to the staff, who try to keep the patients under control.
Candy and Billy Bibbit
Candy and Billy Bibbit have a brief sexual encounter in the hospital, which ultimately leads to Billy's suicide. Billy is a shy and insecure patient who is constantly belittled and bullied by the staff. Candy is one of the few people who shows him any affection or kindness.
After their encounter, Billy is overcome with guilt and shame. He fears that his mother will find out about what he has done and will be disappointed in him. He ultimately decides to kill himself rather than face the consequences.
The Symbolism of Candy's Lollipop
Candy's lollipop is a symbol of sexual promiscuity and rebellion. It represents the patients' desire for freedom and independence, and their rejection of the strict rules and regulations of the hospital. The lollipop is also a symbol of childhood innocence, which is contrasted with the sexual nature of Candy's character.
The lollipop is a recurring motif throughout the book, and is often used to highlight the tension between the patients and the staff. Candy is frequently seen sucking on her lollipop while interacting with the patients, which serves to further emphasize her role as a symbol of rebellion and sexual freedom.
The Significance of Candy's Character
Candy's character is significant because she represents the patients' desire for freedom and independence. Her presence in the hospital is a threat to the staff, who are trying to maintain control over the patients. She serves as a symbol of sexual rebellion and freedom, which is in direct opposition to the strict rules and regulations of the hospital.
Candy's character also highlights the theme of power and control in the novel. The staff of the hospital are constantly trying to exert their power over the patients, but Candy's presence challenges their authority and threatens their control over the hospital.
The Impact of Candy's Character on the Story
Candy's character has a significant impact on the story. Her presence in the hospital highlights the tension between the patients and the staff, and serves as a symbol of rebellion and sexual freedom. Her brief sexual encounter with Billy Bibbit ultimately leads to his suicide, which is a turning point in the story.
Candy's character also serves to humanize the patients and to challenge the stereotypes and stigmas associated with mental illness. She is a reminder that the patients are people with their own desires and needs, rather than just objects to be controlled and manipulated by the staff.
Conclusion
Candy's character is a significant part of One Flew Over the Cuckoo's Nest. She represents the patients' desire for freedom and independence, and serves as a symbol of rebellion and sexual freedom. Her presence in the hospital challenges the authority of the staff, and ultimately has a significant impact on the story.