Sylvia Plath's poem "Ariel" conveys a deep sense of internal struggle and emotional turmoil. The speaker describes a haunting feeling characterized as a "cry" that seeks affection but is also terrifying. This contradiction highlights the struggle between a longing for connection and the fear that such desires evoke, suggesting a profound sense of unease. The cry flaps out at night, symbolizing the raw, uncontrollable emotions that emerge when shadows gather.

The imagery of a dark entity sleeping within evokes the idea of hidden fears and malign impulses. The speaker experiences this darkness physically throughout the day, sensing its presence in a soft, insidious manner. Plath captures the complexity of dealing with inner demons, blending vulnerability and dread, thus portraying the challenging journey of self-acceptance and love amidst fear and despair.