The monkey-rope

the long version

The Monkey-Rope is Melville's symbol in his novel Moby Dick for the relationships that bind each of us to every other individual who shares our human condition - family, friends, lovers, colleagues at work, and all those who make up the society and world around us. Now, a distinguished psychiatrist draws on his 40 years of research and treatment of individuals, couples, and families to describe the basic nature of these relationships and how they shape our lives. In these brief, illuminating essays, Dr. Lewis sharply delineates how destructive relationships can weaken one's self esteem, assault one's dignity, and lead to depression and other psychiatric disorders. At the same time, he shows how an understanding of one's self and of one's relationships with others can lead to a happier, more productive life - how the Monkey-Rope does not tie us down, but rather is our connection to more meaningful, fulfilling relationships.