In these poignant lines from Sylvia Plath's "Ariel," the imagery of clouds highlights the transient nature of emotions and experiences. The clouds symbolize moments that come and go, much like fleeting feelings of love. Plath poses a contemplative question about the value of these elusive emotions, suggesting a deep longing for connection amidst the impermanence of life.

The speaker reflects on the struggle to understand the worth of such love. The phrase "those pale irretrievables" evokes a sense of nostalgia and loss, hinting at what is unachievable or lost over time. There is an exploration of the heart's turmoil, questioning if the pain and agitation are worth the ephemeral encounters that love presents.