When the Music's Over: My Journey Into Schizophrenia

by Ross David Burke

Book Overview

Written in mental hospitals, in jail, and while its author was functioning in the community, this book is an intense, intimate portrait of the inner life of a schizophrenic. As soon as Burke finished... This description may be from another edition of this product.

• Format: Hardcover
• Language: English
• ISBN: 0465091415
• ISBN13: 9780465091416
• Release Date: December 1994
• Publisher: Basic Books
• Length: 272 Pages
• Weight: 1.05 lbs.
• Dimensions: 1.0" x 5.7" x 8.5"

Customer Reviews

simply moving

when i read the first couple of pages, i was already hooked. this is a must read for anyone who is relatively interested in philosophy and/or psychology. simply the best book i have EVER read in my LIFE!!!!!!!!!!!!!

The Inventor of Rock and Roll Rests in Peace.

I'm quite convinced that, had he not been disabled by his illness, Ross David Burke would have made a hell of an artist/entertainer -- novels, songwriting, perhaps even comedy. Now, yes, I live with a psychotic disorder myself, and yes, this book illustrates disordered thought better than any other I've read, but that's not the point I wish to make. Underneath all the crazy confusion, there's a lot of wit and humor, as well as some stunning insights on human nature. His supporting characters come alive -- which is especially impressive, considering the isolating effect schizophrenia has on its sufferers. As self-absorbed as protagonist/narrator Sphere may be, friends like Uncle Cane Toad, and lost love Elysium, are unforgettable.Me, I got my illness well under control, with modern medication long ago (if only Ross had had access to today's drugs!) When sanity gets a little dull, there's much stimulation to be had from the story of Sphere. The tragic ending is a hefty price to pay for the wild ride, but I pay it at least twice a year.I dearly hope Ross would be comforted to know: His book is not only educational, but FUN! Rest in peace, Sphere!

Masterpiece of World Literature

A must read for family and friends of someone who has schizophrenia. Should be required reading for mental health professionals. And, as a survivor of schizophrenia, I would highly recommend it to fellow survivors. A masterpiece.

Amazing

This is the truest depiction of schizophrenia i've ever come across. a must read if any of you have a schizophrenic friend that you're trying to understand. brutally truthful, amazingly accurate.

A must read.

They say it above better than I could. It is fascinating