The overwhelming problem in the book A Night Divided is that Gerta, along with the rest of East Berlin, is trapped. The government is preventing them from leaving and going where they want to go. Although this is very different from what is happening in 2020, there are some similarities. Namely, we aren’t allowed to go out unless it is for an essential need. What Gerta is living in is extremely difficult and she feels trapped.“Individuality was a weakness, a sickness of the west. So we all walked in step, eyes ahead, and with conversations at a minimum.” Gerta feels like she can’t do anything on her own and she is trapped from expressing herself and freeing her imagination. As I’m writing this in my bedroom, over a month through quarantine and with at least another to go, I can relate to these struggles. Prior to this, I was never fully able to comprehend not being able to do as you please. Now, I can understand this. The government, which is trying to do everything possible to stop the spread of this disease, is keeping us locked up in our homes as much as possible. We aren’t allowed to go out, to eat in restaurants, or to even walk outside if we cross state lines. This is a sad yet true narrative, and the worse part is… Gerta had it ten times worse. She was truly locked up and couldn’t even express her thoughts. At least nowadays we can still talk and not get worried the government is going to stomp into our houses. Gerta lived a life of fear. Reflecting on all of this leads you to realize how fortunate we are. Although what is going on in the world right now is a true tragedy, it still could be worse and we have to be grateful of our situations. It is always important to look back on how things could have been different and never take anything for granted.