The Bell Jar : Book Review

Book Review

Title: The Bell Jar
Author: Sylvia Plath
Genre: Fiction

The Bell jar is a semi autobiographical fiction work of the author Sylvia Plath and was recommended to me by my Professor at Stanford. . 

This modern classic entails the story of Esther Greenwood-a college student who gets a chance to visit New York for a month and work as a guest editor for a magazine. Instead of having a glorious time as she had expected, Esther feels stifled. Her inability to fit in with her peers or the lifestyle in the city leaves her in despair. Things turn worse when she fails to get accepted into a writing program. Gradually Esther succumbs to feelings of meloncholonchy that eventually paves way to depression and suicidal tendencies. The rest of the book depicts Esther's battle with her deteriorating mental health. 

Written in first person narrative, the first half of the book talks about Esther's coming of age story which includes her several relationships and escapades. The second half depicts Esther’s experiences in a mental asylum, her shock treatments and experiences with Psychiatrists. The tone is direct and witty in certain parts interspersed with sardonic humor. Some parts of the book are disturbing and mirrors reality in a brutal manner. 

It showcases an individual's struggle with their life when they are at the brink of insanity. This is no easy read by any means. Yet it's very much in need of the hour, considering the number of suicides that have occurred in the recent past. The Bell Jar is no doubt a brilliant read but one that will leave the readers with million thoughts. 


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