Blog: 2007-04-19 - The Blue Lenses
Summary
In this unsettling short story, Marda West is recovering from eye surgery in a hospital, anxiously awaiting the removal of her bandages and the fitting of new, temporary blue lenses that will restore her sight. Her anticipation turns to horror when the bandages are removed; the blue lenses reveal the true, grotesque natures of the people around her, showing them not as humans, but as animals - her nurse appears as a snake, and her husband, Jim, appears as a vulture.
As Marda struggles to maintain her sanity, she realizes that the vision provided by the lenses may be a form of profound insight, exposing the deceit and hostility of those she trusted most. She becomes increasingly isolated and fearful as she uncovers a conspiracy involving her husband and caregivers, culminating in a climactic, desperate attempt to escape the trap they have set for her.