NOTES TO JOHN
By Joan Didion
Publisher: Knopf
Didon’s first-person account, discovered after her death, written to her husband, John Gregory Dunne, of her psychiatric sessions.
Review by By The Books Reviewer
Joan Didion's posthumously published "Notes to John" is a deeply personal collection of journal entries addressed to her late husband, John Gregory Dunne. These entries, penned during her therapy sessions from 1999 to 2002, offer an unfiltered glimpse into Didion's internal struggles, particularly concerning her daughter, Quintana Roo Dunne, who battled alcoholism and mental health issues.
Unlike Didion's polished memoirs such as "The Year of Magical Thinking" and "Blue Nights," which artfully transform personal grief into literature, "Notes to John" presents raw, unedited reflections. This stark contrast raises significant ethical questions about the publication of private writings. As noted in The Atlantic, the decision to release these intimate notes may undermine the integrity of Didion's intentional legacy, challenging the boundaries between authorial privacy and public consumption. ([theatlantic.com](https://www.theatlantic.com/books/archive/2025/04/joan-didion-wouldnt-have-wanted-notes-john-published/682519/?utm_source=openai))
The content of "Notes to John" is undeniably poignant, revealing Didion's profound anxieties and vulnerabilities. However, the lack of her characteristic stylistic finesse makes the reading experience feel intrusive, as if one is eavesdropping on private confessions not meant for public eyes. This sentiment is echoed by critics who question the morality of publishing such personal material without the author's explicit consent. ([idsnews.com](https://www.idsnews.com/article/2025/02/opinion-author-book-diary-iu-indiana-bloomington?utm_source=openai))
Furthermore, the publication of these therapy notes sets a troubling precedent. It suggests that an artist's most private thoughts are fair game for public consumption, potentially deterring future writers from seeking therapeutic help or documenting their personal struggles. The Indiana Daily Student articulates this concern, emphasizing the need to respect the privacy and agency of individuals, even posthumously. ([idsnews.com](https://www.idsnews.com/article/2025/02/opinion-author-book-diary-iu-indiana-bloomington?utm_source=openai))
In conclusion, while "Notes to John" offers a rare insight into Joan Didion's personal life, the ethical implications of its publication cannot be ignored. The decision to publish these private notes appears to be a disservice to Didion's legacy, prioritizing public curiosity over the author's privacy. Therefore, I must advise readers to approach this book with caution, considering the moral complexities involved.
Recommendation: Read with caution.
written on: 5/1/2025