Commentary on Sylvia Plath's "Ariel".

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Jie Ming Oh

English HA1 (MBe)

June 14, 2002

Commentary on Sylvia Plath’s “Ariel”

         “Ariel”, a poem written by Sylvia Plath, describes the narrator’s transition from a state of complete stillness to a state of rapid movement whilst she is riding a horse into the dawn.  Throughout this poem, Plath conveys a sense of freedom both in the physical and mental state through the use of natural imagery and metaphorical references.  However, an undertone of tension and fear is accentuated through her use of diction.  

The theme of physical freedom is highlighted in the opening stanzas of the poem.  The use of the word “lioness” recreates the image of power and complete freedom to roam without restriction.  In addition, the use of the word “God”, further stresses the sense of unlimited power and independence.  In the opening stanza of the poem, the image of darkness and stillness is described in the phrase “stasis in darkness”.  The use of the imagery of darkness reiterates the sense of a lack of limitation, as the scene described is a “pour of tor and distances”.  

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However, the rider also experiences mental freedom as depicted through the phrase “as one we grow” showing that she is becoming more at one with nature.  This is further emphasized through Plath’s use of the word “sister”.  Plath describes the rider as “sister to the brown arc of the neck”.  The word “sister” gives an impression that she is becoming much more comfortable and secure with the horse she is riding upon, hence, uniting with it to become one.  The rider also experiences a release of control as she is “haul[ed] through air – thighs, hair; Flakes from [her] knees”. ...

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