What is the meaning of Sylvia Plath’s Quote: “What I want back is what I was”?
Sylvia Plath is a renowned American poet, novelist, and short-story writer who is well-known for her works that depict her innermost feelings and emotions. Plath suffered from depression for most of her adult life and had attempted suicide multiple times. She received electroconvulsive therapy for her depression, which left her with memory loss and other cognitive difficulties. Plath’s struggles with mental health are evident in her writing, and many of her works explore the themes of death, suicide, and mental illness.One of her most famous quotes is, “What I want back is what I was.” This quote has puzzled readers for years, and in this article, we will explore the meaning behind this powerful statement.
Exploring the Quote
Now that we have some background information on Sylvia Plath let’s explore the meaning behind her famous quote, “What I want back is what I was.”
Nostalgia for the Past
The first interpretation of this quote is that Plath is expressing a sense of nostalgia for the past. She may be yearning to go back to a time when she was happier, more carefree, and less burdened by the weight of her mental illness.
The Loss of Innocence
Another interpretation of the quote is that Plath is mourning the loss of her innocence. She may be referring to a time in her life when she was more naive and less aware of the harsh realities of the world. Plath may be longing for the simplicity of her youth and the sense of wonder and excitement she once felt.
The Desire for Change
A third interpretation of the quote is that Plath is expressing a desire for change. She may be unhappy with her current situation and wants to return to a time when things were different. Plath may be wishing for a chance to start over or to make different choices that could lead to a better outcome.
The Search for Identity
The quote could also be interpreted as Plath’s search for her true identity. She may be questioning who she has become and longing to go back to a time when she knew who she was. Plath may be struggling with her sense of self and trying to find her place in the world.
The Desire for Freedom
Another possible interpretation of the quote is that Plath is expressing a desire for freedom. She may be feeling trapped in her current situation and yearning to go back to a time when she felt more free and unencumbered.
The Quest for Happiness
The quote could also be a reflection of Plath’s search for happiness. She may be longing to return to a time when she was happier and more content with her life. Plath may be trying to find a way to regain that happiness and sense of fulfillment.
Reflection on Mortality
The quote could also be a reflection on mortality. Plath may be acknowledging the passing of time and the inevitability of death. She may be expressing a desire to return to a time when she was young and full of life, before the weight of mortality and the fear of death set in.
The Longing for Perfection
Finally, the quote could be interpreted as Plath’s longing for perfection. She may be yearning to go back to a time when she was perfect or perceived herself as such. Plath may be struggling with the imperfections of her current self and wishing she could return to a time when she was flawless.
Conclusion
Sylvia Plath’s quote, “What I want back is what I was,” is a powerful statement that has been interpreted in many ways over the years. It reflects Plath’s struggles with mental illness, her search for identity, her desire for change, and her reflection on mortality. It is a reminder that we all have moments in our lives when we long for the past, and that nostalgia can be both a source of comfort and a source of pain.
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