What is an example of symbolism in the novel, Wonder Boys?

The midnight disease symbolizes the dangers of isolation and loneliness. The midnight disease is a term that Grady has coined to refer to the habit that writers have of becoming dangerously aloof and disconnected from other people. Q. articulates a similar idea when talking about his ideas of divided identities. Vetch, Grady, Q., and James all appear to be potential sufferers of this condition, and the novel illustrates the destructive effects of person disconnection.