In Sylvia Plath's poem "Ariel," she explores profound themes of existence, identity, and the human condition. The lines highlight the raw emotional expression found in a child's cry, which resonates with deep authenticity and spiritual significance. In contrast, the mention of a rabbit's cry, albeit wilder, suggests a lack of deeper meaning or soul, emphasizing the unique emotional weight that human cries carry.
This dichotomy illustrates the contrast between instinct and deeper emotional experiences. Plath suggests that while animals express urgency or fear through their cries, human cries are imbued with a connection to the essence of life. The contrast invites readers to reflect on the complexities of human emotions versus the more instinctual responses of the animal world.