In "The Bell Jar," Sylvia Plath explores the dynamics between men and women through the metaphor of an arrow. The quote suggests that a man seeks direction and purpose, represented by the arrow that moves toward the future. This reflects traditional views on gender roles, where men are driven to achieve goals and ambitions.

Conversely, the woman is likened to the point of origin, the place from which the arrow launches. This implies that women often serve as the foundation or support for men's aspirations, indicating a more passive role in the narrative of life. Plath's work highlights the complexities of identity and societal expectations surrounding these roles.