In Sylvia Plath's "The Bell Jar," the protagonist expresses a sense of disconnection and reluctance to engage in activities that were once appealing, such as social events and outings. Despite being invited to various gatherings, she chooses to isolate herself instead, retreating to bed. This choice reflects her struggle with mental health and a feeling of exhaustion from societal expectations and personal desires.

As she contemplates her inability to fully embrace either the obligations of her life or the rebelliousness of not adhering to them, she is struck by sadness. The comparison to her friend Doreen, who seems carefree and untroubled by such dilemmas, deepens her feelings of inadequacy. This inner conflict highlights the theme of struggle between conformity and the desire for freedom, contributing to her overall sense of fatigue and despair.