Book Review

Title: The Death and Life of Sylvia Plath

Author: Ronald Hayman

Review: This was a very informative book about a troubled young poet who fought depression, suicidal thoughts, and never feeling satisfied with her accomplishments. The book began with the events which led up to her 1963 suicide at age thirty. Hayman did a fine job in describing her childhood, her love-hate relationship with her mother, and the guilt feeling she had in the death of her father.

I felt some frustration in that Sylvia never was told that depression ran on her father's side of the family. The pacing by Hayman was good in that I felt nothing was rushed. Sylvia was an poignant and skilled poet who used many metaphors in her poetry. She had a knowledge of Greek history, African folklore, and English architecture.

I found Ted Hughes, Plath's husband, a reprehensible philanderer who only cared about himself. I probably should leave this out but it's only my opinion. Plath is not blameless in the failure of their marriage with her depression, dissatisfaction with herself, and the need to be lead by someone else. I recommend this book for anyone who really wants to know Sylvia Plath.

Rating: 7.5

~Genevieve