In the novel 'Valley of the Dolls', written by Jacqueline Susann, the dolls referred to in the title are not the typical playthings that come to mind. Instead, they represent the various forms of escapism that the characters in the story turn to in order to cope with the challenges they face.

The dolls in the novel are a metaphor for the different types of addictive substances that the characters rely on to numb their pain and escape from reality. These substances include prescription drugs, alcohol, and even fame and success. Each character in the book has their own doll, which they use as a crutch to navigate the ups and downs of their lives.

One of the main characters, Anne Welles, turns to the doll of success. She is a young woman from a small town who moves to New York City in search of a better life. As she climbs the ladder of success in the entertainment industry, she becomes addicted to the glamour and attention that comes with it. However, she soon realizes that this doll is not enough to fill the void inside her and finds herself spiraling into a world of drugs and self-destruction.

Jennifer North, another character in the novel, relies on the doll of beauty. She is a talented actress who is constantly objectified and judged based on her looks. To cope with the pressure, she turns to alcohol and prescription drugs, which ultimately lead to her downfall.

Neely O'Hara, a young singer, becomes addicted to the doll of fame. She craves the spotlight and is willing to do anything to achieve success. However, her addiction to drugs and alcohol ends up destroying her career and personal relationships.

Through the portrayal of these characters and their reliance on different forms of escapism, 'Valley of the Dolls' explores the dark side of fame, success, and beauty. It delves into the consequences of seeking fulfillment through external means rather than addressing the underlying issues.

The dolls in the novel serve as a cautionary tale, reminding us of the dangers of turning to substances or external validation to escape from our problems. 'Valley of the Dolls' serves as a reminder that true fulfillment and happiness can only be found by facing our challenges head-on and seeking inner growth.

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