Summary

In Chapter 19, Pages 121 through 127, Finkel explores Knight’s sensitivity to being called insane. Knight claims when people ask, “Are you crazy,” there’s no acceptable answer. Answering yes means you are, answering no means you’re defensive (121). When Knight heard that people thought some of his actions were eccentric, like burying bundles of old magazines, he stated that they didn’t understand his actions. Everything he did had a logical purpose. The bundles of magazines created a floorboard for this tent.

Finkel explores possible diagnoses that could explain Knight’s desire to be alone. The state declared Knight completely competent but also suggested three possible diagnoses: Asperger’s disorder, depression, or Schizoid Personality Disorder. Finkel talked with several clinical experts who offered opinions, although all said it’s impossible to diagnose accurately without seeing the person. Many agreed with Asperger’s because of...