Part 5/10:
The critic sharply notes the grotesque contrast between Gilbert’s polished images and the grim reality of her partner’s suffering. Gilbert’s account of Rya’s deterioration—described as “her official no-future diagnosis”—is questioned for exploiting her partner’s illness for artistic or emotional credibility. Gilbert’s actions, such as walking into a harm reduction center to share needles, allegedly demonstrate an unhealthy codependency rooted in narcissism rather than compassion.