Denial is deeply programmed into the human DNA. Without denial humans would find their self awareness unbearable. This unique combination of heightened consciousness and deep repression is at the heart of the human horror story.
Conversation
The Denial of Death, Ernest Becker, 1973.
Pulitzer Prize winner in 1974.
The most life-changing book I've ever read.
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I second that. Read it last year. Most excellent.