Review by Cricket
“The trouble was, I had been inadequate all along, I simply hadn’t thought about it.”
The Bell Jar by Sylvia Plath is a profound exploration of character development, flaws, and the open-ended nature of the narrative, mirroring the unresolved journey of the protagonist, Esther Greenwood. Plath’s writing, while nuanced for its time, raises consideration about the alter states in which her work was often published, a practice aimed at preserving the face of those she wrote about.
The novel’s strength lies in its portrayal of Esther, a character whose flaws are her drive, making her both complex and relatable. The open ending, much like Esther’s uncertain path, leaves readers with a lingering sense of the unresolved. It’s deliberate of the uncertainties inherent in life. Plath’s voice, though occasionally problematic by contemporary standards, remains a vital reflection of the era, and preserving the original text becomes crucial in capturing the sincerity of that time and its history.
One notable aspect of character development is Ester’s relationship with Buddy, a character whose flaws and societal expectations contribute to the richness of the narrative. A character she both Craves but in the same breath will dismiss as childish. Esther’s disdain for her friends adds another layer of complexity to her character, portraying her as flawed and slightly unlikable, a fear that she grapples with throughout the novel.
Ester’s desire to be seen by, and around her friend Doreen while often remarking on Doreen’s crudeness reflects the mixed feelings the protagonist had towards everyone in her life.
Plath doesn’t shy away from presenting her characters as imperfect, offering a more genuine portrayal of the human experience.
The sensitivity surrounding Plath’s word choices is an important consideration in today’s context. Some expressions come across negatively, but altering the text would risk erasing the past and the intention behind her work. It’s a delicate balance between acknowledging the discomfort and preserving the historical authenticity of The Bell Jar.
Sylvia Plath, a prolific author, emerges as one of the most significant voices in confessional writing, a style she initially disliked tremendously. Her impact on literature transcends her flaws and challenges, as her work delves into the depths of the human psyche. The Bell Jar stands as a testament to Plath’s ability to navigate the complexities of character development, presenting flawed and genuine individuals that resonate with readers. In the end, the open-ended nature of both the novel and its characters invites contemplation, leaving a lasting impression on those willing to grapple with the uncertainties of life and history.
