When inexplicable tragedy occurs, human nature dictates that those who are affected assume guilt. It is a common tendency, often carrying powerful and negative consequences. The novel Ordinary People by Judith Guest targets this universal truth, narrating the story of the Jarret family and the guilt-ridden path they travel after the loss of one son, and the attempted suicide of the other. Using characterization, relationships of those characters, and symbolism, Guest effectively deals with the theme of guilt, and its destructive nature.
             The remaining members of the Jarret family individually take on guilt over Jordan's death and Conrad's attempts to kill himself, being torn apart internally and destroying things externally because of it. Beth, being ridiculously cleanly takes Conrad's decision to slit his wrists as a deliberate statement against herself. She confesses this to Cal during their short vacation in Dallas.
            
             "Don't you understand what he was saying?" she asks. "He was saying, 'Look! Look what you made me do!' "
             (238)
            
             She assumes guilt over the near death of her second son, regardless of the fact that it is not a message to her. Choosing guilt, she pushes Conrad away, destroying their connection, and estranging them from one another.
             Similarly, her husband, Cal takes on excessive blame after the two tragedies, as he confesses when talking to Dr. Berger. Berger begins the dialogue, telling Cal:
            
             "I'm getting a feeling from you,' he says, 'of heavy guilt. [...] Am I right?"
             "Yes," Cal says, 'sure. [...] You don't have something like that happen and not feel the responsibility."
             "Guilt."
             "Guilt. Yes"
             (146)
            
             Acting on his impulses of guilt, Cal smothers Conrad with affection, concern, and attempts at friendship. The result of this is not only the annoyance of his son, but also the neglect of...