Sylvia Plath's 'Lady Lazarus' Poem Analysis

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