This was a depressing read. Now I desperately need some examples of Phd candidates who had a great time and managed to do well from a scientific point of view. To restore my faith in humanity.
My brother defended a thesis that actually made sense and had the means to do it though he did not write his story. (Caveat: I did not understand his subject. Caveat 2: Professor was his (and thus my) uncle.)
I had a pretty good time! My supervisor was supportive, but fairly hands-off. I learned a lot, published pretty well, and mostly enjoyed it!
They exist, I work with some of them. Its just unfortunate that they're the exception.