p1

• ts: psychoanalytic lens to “MGLS”, -> delve into Plath’s manipulation of poetic form in stanza 1 as an examination the power of human mind and memories.
• quote: first 2 lines of poem "I shut my eyes and all the world drops dead”.
• anaphora: repeating it throughout the poem -> persona's attempt to escape overwhelming external world and withdraw into depths of the mind as defense mechanism

  • a way of creating psychological barrier against challenges
• alliteration: Repetition of the "d" sound in "world drops dead"

  • strong memorable aural effect
  • Harshness of "d" sound + directness of the words: EMPHASISE gravity of statement -> persona perception of world is hostile, threatening & void of life
  • context: suicide: line adopts haunting quality -> plath's reliance of escapism as coping mechanism as show through the "shut(ing) my eyes”, allowing “the world (to) drop dead”.
• line provides glimpse into her personal struggles, reflecting a deep sense of despair and a yearning for a release from the pain and chaos of the world, as the phrase “all the world drops dead” conveys a sense of solitude and isolation, as if shutting out the external world brings a temporary feeling of life to Plath.
• personal context: As someone in the 21st century grappling with mental health challenges, I often find myself suffocating by the societal pressures around me, and frequently retreat into the sanctuary of my mind for a slither of peace in an upbeat chaotic environment.  Yet, everytime I lift my lids once more, I find a small renewed sense of strength, ready to confront the challenges that lie ahead.