In this intense moment from "The Falls" by Joyce Carol Oates, the character Ariah experiences a surge of violent emotion. Her desire to physically assault herself indicates a profound internal struggle and a need to cope with the overwhelming pain and trauma she has faced. The act of wanting to blacken her own eyes symbolizes a wish to escape the burden of memories that haunt her.

This passage encapsulates the theme of self-inflicted suffering as a reaction to life's harsh experiences. Ariah’s frustration is not only directed outward but also turned inwards, highlighting her complex relationship with her own identity and past. The imagery of striking her face suggests both a desperation for release and a confrontation with her own reality.