Lady Lazarus Poem Analysis: Uncover the Meaning Behind Sylvia Plath's Famous Poem

What is the speaker's attitude towards dying?

How does the speaker feel about people observing her scars and listening to her heart?

What does the speaker compare herself to in terms of experiencing death multiple times?

What does the speaker find fascinating about dying?

How does the speaker describe her physical appearance after experiencing death?

What does the speaker mean when they say, 'It really goes'?

How many times does the speaker expect to die in total?

Which body part does the speaker describe as a 'paperweight'?

What kind of crowd gathers to observe the speaker after she experiences death?

How old is the speaker currently?

What aspect of the speaker's appearance does she liken to 'Nazi lampshade'?

The Poem's Speaker

The speaker has attempted to kill themselves every decade, with this being their third attempt
They have survived each attempt, feeling like a "walking miracle"

Physical Appearance

The speaker's skin is compared to a "Nazi lampshade", implying a pale, fragile complexion
Their right foot is heavy, like a "paperweight"
Their face is featureless, like "fine Jew linen"

Emotional State

The speaker feels they are a "sort of walking miracle", implying a sense of irony and detachment
They ask if they terrify, suggesting a sense of self-awareness and questioning
They recognize their "sour breath" will soon vanish, and their body will be restored to a normal state

Cycle of Suicide and Rebirth

The speaker has attempted suicide three times, with a decade-long gap between each attempt
They compare themselves to a cat, suggesting nine lives and multiple chances
They view dying as an art form, something they do exceptionally well

Public Perception

The speaker feels like they are putting on a show, with the "peanut-crunching crowd" watching their every move
They are aware of the "charge" or price for people to "eye" their scars and "hear" their heartbeat

Identity

Despite their struggles, the speaker feels they are the same person, with the same face and body
They are a "smiling woman", suggesting a sense of resilience and determination

Test your understanding of Sylvia Plath's poem 'Lady Lazarus' with this quiz. Explore the themes, imagery, and literary devices used in this powerful piece of poetry.