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A review by sndrr
The Bell Jar by Sylvia Plath
dark
funny
informative
sad
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Character
- Strong character development? It's complicated
- Loveable characters? It's complicated
- Diverse cast of characters? No
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
4.25
Painful, vivid picture of a woman nearly snuffed out by patriarchy. I've read few villains as punchable as Buddy Willard and few protagonists as biting as Esther.
I appreciated and found humor in Esther's general misanthropy, but her racist thoughts, remarks, and actions presumably alienate audiences who could otherwise have felt seen by Esther. Additionally, a bit more structure and apparent intention with plot would have further elevated the piece.
One of those books that you find yourself lingering on after it’s done. Worth reading for its portrayal of mental illness, especially as a woman in mid-century America, if you can swallow the bigotry and graphic content.
I appreciated and found humor in Esther's general misanthropy, but her racist thoughts, remarks, and actions presumably alienate audiences who could otherwise have felt seen by Esther. Additionally, a bit more structure and apparent intention with plot would have further elevated the piece.
One of those books that you find yourself lingering on after it’s done. Worth reading for its portrayal of mental illness, especially as a woman in mid-century America, if you can swallow the bigotry and graphic content.
Content Warnings
Graphic: Misogyny, Racial slurs, Racism, Suicidal thoughts, Suicide attempt
Moderate: Suicide