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20
WEDNESDAY
Is it possible that depression has become too destigmatized? From the number of gloom-and-doom-themed tomes that cross my book editor’s desk, I’d almost say yes. But not only is this disease du jour rampant in America (affecting more than one in five, by some estimates), it seems to strike disproportionately among introspective and creative types. And it makes them, um, even more introspective and creative. So perhaps the volume of words is not a good indicator. Besides, writing them is no doubt therapeutic. Reading them is salubrious, too. Although by itself it can’t make the horror go away, the knowledge that you’re not alone goes a long way toward comforting you when you’re trapped in the ever-shrinking circle of sorrow that is depression. Ask Nell Casey if editing “the most complete portrait of the illness ever compiled” was helpful when she signs copies of Unholy Ghost, a collection of essays and excerpts by the likes of Larry McMurtry, Susanna Kaysen, Ann Beattie, and, of course, William Styron at 7:30 p.m. at Borders, 11301 Rockville Pike, Kensington. Free. (301) 816-1067. (Caroline Schweiter)