As we navigate these unprecedented times, it’s hard not to feel a little like Jack Torrance from the classic horror film, “The Shining.” I look back at the early days of quarantine when I was blissfully optimistic, believing that enforced family time would be a delightful experience. After all, getting my teenagers to spend time with me can be quite a task, so I thought this would be a perfect opportunity. We envisioned endless hours of puzzles, nature walks, cookie baking, and heartwarming bonding moments. How naive I was.
It turns out, we’re not the first to experience the trials of extended family isolation. Jack Torrance illustrated the challenges of being cooped up together, even with a whole hotel to escape to. It’s essential to acknowledge the stages of quarantine through the lens of this iconic film.
The Initial Phase
Week 1: You’re feeling fresh and fabulous. You’re still putting effort into your appearance and wearing real clothes because it just feels right. With no relentless activities to juggle and no daily commutes, life seems promising. You imagine daily nature walks and sharing picturesque moments on social media.
However, it quickly becomes clear that one productive activity isn’t enough to keep everyone occupied. The kids always want to play. So, you abandon the dream of perfect family unity and opt for a more relaxed approach, which may include free-range arts and crafts and naptime.
Meanwhile, working from home feels like a breeze—until you realize that balancing tasks while fending off your enthusiastic child is a recipe for chaos. “How much are we paying teachers again?” you might wonder, as you consider their salary should be tripled.
The Midway Phase
Happy hour has officially become a daily ritual. With life feeling increasingly repetitive, it’s necessary. The children are restless, and so are you. Questions like, “How much longer do we have to stay inside?” and “When can I shop at TJ Maxx again?” echo through your mind. You even start to wonder how early it’s acceptable to pour that first drink.
The Final Phase
The kids have mastered the art of sleeping in, making it a challenge to get them ready for their daily Zoom classes. At this point, pants are an optional accessory. Honestly, who cares? Just don’t stand up during the meeting.
Cabin fever sets in, and you find yourself frustrated—“WHY ARE WE OUT OF TITO’S AGAIN?” “WHY WON’T THESE KIDS STOP TALKING?” “WHY DOES MY PARTNER EAT CEREAL LIKE THAT?” The grocery store’s yeast shortage becomes the least of your worries as you lose track of your sanity.
You know how it ends. It’s time to treat yourself—order something fun online, lock yourself in the bathroom for a moment of peace, and maybe indulge in half a cake. Whatever it takes to maintain your sanity through this ordeal.
It’s all going to be alright in the end, but let’s maybe hold off on rewatching this film until after we’re through with all of this.
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Summary
Navigating quarantine can feel like a horror movie, especially as family dynamics shift under the pressure of extended isolation. The early optimism fades into chaos, and survival often means finding small ways to cope. Embrace the madness, and remember, it will all be okay in the end.