Dissatisfaction Quotes in Ordinary People

This line shows us Conrad's rapid re-descent into depression. Instead of thinking that his strained relationship with his mother is neither person's fault (or both of their faults), he blames himself for everything. Not just his relationship with his mother, but any bad relationship he might have with anyone on the entire planet. Whoa, kiddo, put on the brakes.

This is most important quote on this topic in the book. Do you agree with Dr. Berger's assessment? He is accurate regarding Conrad specifically, but is his definition of depression in line with what you have witnessed or experienced?

It's difficult to say if this quote means Conrad is getting better, or if he's still depressed. You could say that he is too disinterested in life to care. Or you could say that he has come to terms with the fact that life doesn't need to have solid answers, so he will no longer be disappointed when he fails to find them.