Why the hell are we conditioned into the smooth strawberry-and-cream Mother-Goose-world, Alice-in-Wonderland fable, only to be broken on the wheel as we grow older and become aware of ourselves as individuals with a dull responsibility in life?
Sylvia Plath questions the societal conditioning that leads individuals to initially experience a whimsical, idealized version of life akin to fairy tales, only to face harsh realities as they mature. She expresses a deep frustration with the contrast between the innocent, enchanting narratives presented to us and the burdensome responsibilities that come with adulthood.
Through her reflection, Plath emphasizes the tension between childhood innocence and the complexities of adult life. This commentary highlights the emotional struggles of reconciling the dreams and fantasies of youth with the often mundane or challenging nature of adult responsibilities.
