Final Answer:
In the beginning of Chapter 2, Chief Bromden feels disillusioned and detached from the world around him.
Step-by-step explanation:
Chief Bromden’s feelings in the beginning of Chapter 2 can be understood through the context of Ken Kesey’s novel, “One Flew Over the Cuckoo’s Nest.” Kesey’s portrayal of Chief Bromden’s character highlights his detachment from the reality of the mental institution and his inability to connect with the other patients or staff members.
At the start of Chapter 2, Chief Bromden is described as being “as big as a house” but “insubstantial as a wisp of smoke.” This paradoxical description highlights his feeling of disillusionment and detachment from the world around him. He is physically present but emotionally absent, almost like a ghost observing the events unfolding around him. This disconnection is further emphasized when he states that he “feels like a stone, warmed up by the sun and then left out in the rain.” This metaphor suggests that he is unable to maintain any sense of emotional stability or clarity, constantly oscillating between feeling warm and connected and feeling cold and distant.
Furthermore, Chief Bromden’s inability to communicate effectively with the other patients and staff members also contributes to his feeling of detachment. His speech is often incoherent and difficult to understand, further reinforcing his isolation. This isolation is a significant factor in his disillusionment with the world around him, as he is unable to form meaningful connections with those around him.
In conclusion, Chief Bromden’s feelings of disillusionment and detachment in the beginning of Chapter 2 are a result of his physical presence coupled with emotional absence, his inability to communicate effectively, and his isolation from the other patients and staff members.