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We Need to Talk About Kevin Chapter 9: December 18, 2000 Summary

How It All Goes Down

  • Eva recalls being diagnosed with "postnatal depression" (9.5) back in 1983.
  • Eva tries hard to form an attachment to Kevin, but he just depresses her.
  • After developing mastitis, an infection of the breasts, Eva can't nurse, making it even harder to bond with Kevin.
  • The woman who used to travel all over the world is now stuck at home with a baby who cries and screams all day long.
  • When Franklin comes home, he diminishes the situation, saying Kevin is "crabby" or "fussy" (9.31).
  • The mastitis infection causes Eva's temperature to rise to 104 degrees. Only when Franklin sees how sick Eva is does he display any tenderness toward her.