Sylvia Plath’s poem begins with a powerful metaphor, comparing love to a "fat gold watch." This simile suggests that love is a mechanism or force that sets one in motion, much like the intricate workings of a watch. The imagery evokes a sense of precision, value, and dependence on the rhythm and timing that love provides, indicating that love brings energy and purpose to life.

Moreover, the phrase highlights the weight and significance of love, akin to the substantial presence of a gold watch. Plath implies that love can be both comforting and burdensome, reflecting the complexity of relationships. Through this quote, she captures the dual nature of love, suggesting that while it can drive one's existence, it also demands responsibility and care, just like maintaining a valuable timepiece.