A living doll, everywhere you look. It can sew, it can cook, It can talk, talk, talk. It works, there is nothing wrong with it. You have a hole, its a poultice. You have an eye, its an image. My boy, its your last resort. Will you marry it, marry it, marry it.
In Sylvia Plath's poem "Ariel," the speaker presents the concept of a living doll, showcasing an idealized, multi-functional entity that embodies both domesticity and companionship. The doll's abilities to sew, cook, and converse highlight a blend of traditional feminine roles and a sense of practicality. However, it also hints at a deeper commentary on expectations placed on women, as well as the notion of dependency on such an idealized figure. The repeated question of marriage to the doll suggests a culmination of desperation and the search for fulfillment in a constrained existence. This raises questions about identity and autonomy within the confines of societal norms. The references to being a poultice and an image evoke both healing and superficiality, reflecting the inner conflict of seeking solace in an artificial construct. Overall, the poem critiques the glossy portrayal of women's roles while emphasizing the complexities of their reality.
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