Polly, a character in the novel and film Girl, Interrupted, is a complex and troubled individual. Her experience in the mental institution, Claymoore, is marked by a tumultuous journey of self-discovery and ultimately, a return to the outside world. However, the specifics of her "recovery" and what happens to her after leaving Claymoore are left somewhat ambiguous.
The novel and film offer several clues about Polly's fate:
- She leaves Claymoore: While the exact circumstances of her departure aren't explicitly stated, it's clear she no longer resides at the institution.
- She reconnects with Lisa: In the novel, Lisa, the protagonist, receives a postcard from Polly after her release. This indicates they stay in touch.
- She remains on medication: The film suggests Polly continues taking medication, implying she recognizes the need for ongoing treatment.
- She embraces a new life: The final scenes in the film show Polly living a more stable life, suggesting she has made progress.
While the specifics of what happened to Polly after leaving Claymoore are not fully revealed, it's implied that she found some stability and a sense of purpose. The focus of the story is on Lisa's journey, and Polly's fate serves as a reminder that mental health is a lifelong process, with varying outcomes.