The protagonist in "The Bell Jar," by Sylvia Plath, experiences a profound sense of inner turmoil that is vividly depicted through her racing heartbeat. The phrase "I am I am I am" emphasizes her struggle with identity and existence, illustrating a desperation to affirm her presence in a world that feels overwhelming and alienating. This internal repetition reflects her emotional state and the cyclical nature of her thoughts, hinting at her declining mental health.

Plath's use of this heartbeat imagery suggests a disconnect between her mental state and the physical reality surrounding her. The heartbeat, described as a dull motor, symbolizes her numbing experience and the weight of her struggles. Through these words, Plath captures the essence of existential angst and the challenge of maintaining one’s identity amid profound psychological distress, making the narrative relatable to anyone who has faced similar feelings.