Silent Woman: Sylvia Plath And Ted Hughes

Janet Malcolm's revelatory biography of the tumultuous union of Sylvia Plath and Ted Hughes, and the critical battle that overshadows their legacies.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 224 pages
Publication date: 02 April 2020
Publisher: Granta Books

Malcolm s work is a testament to her exceptional scholarship and her ability to bring complex literary subjects to life for a wide audience.
In her book "The Silent Woman," renowned writer Janet Malcolm delves into the lives of Sylvia Plath and Ted Hughes, exploring the complexities of their marriage and its tragic end. Through meticulous research and analysis, Malcolm sheds light on the enigmatic figure of Plath, revealing the truth behind her public persona and the personal struggles that led to her suicide.

Malcolm's book is a masterpiece of literary criticism, offering a fresh perspective on Plath's life and work. She challenges the traditional biographical narratives that have been prevalent in the literature, questioning the reliability of sources and the accuracy of portrayals. By examining the various biographies written about Plath, including Anne Stevenson's "Bitter Fame," Malcolm uncovers the biases and assumptions that have shaped our understanding of her.

One of the key themes of "The Silent Woman" is the notion of fame and its impact on individuals. Malcolm argues that Plath's fame, which came early in her career with the publication of her first collection of poetry, "The Colossus," was both a blessing and a curse. On the one hand, it provided her with the recognition and opportunities she sought, but on the other hand, it subjected her to intense scrutiny and pressure.

Malcolm also explores the complex relationship between Plath and Hughes, highlighting the power dynamics and emotional struggles that played a role in their marriage. She examines the ways in which Hughes controlled and dominated Plath, both in their personal lives and in his writing. However, she also shows how Plath resisted and challenged Hughes's control, using her writing as a means of expressing her own emotions and experiences.

Through her analysis, Malcolm sheds light on the societal and cultural factors that contributed to Plath's mental health struggles. She explores the pressures of gender roles, the expectations of motherhood, and the stigma surrounding mental illness in the 1950s and 1960s. Malcolm argues that Plath's suicide was not solely a result of her personal struggles but also a reflection of the broader societal pressures and expectations that were placed upon her.

"The Silent Woman" is a deeply personal and emotional book, as Malcolm delves into her own experiences as a writer and the ways in which Plath's life and work have resonated with her. She offers a sympathetic and nuanced portrayal of Plath, recognizing her talent and her struggles while also acknowledging the complexities of her character and the tragic circumstances that led to her death.

In conclusion, "The Silent Woman" is a must-read for anyone interested in Sylvia Plath's life and work. Janet Malcolm's exceptional scholarship and her ability to bring complex literary subjects to life make this book a valuable contribution to the literature on Plath and her legacy. Through her meticulous research and thoughtful analysis, Malcolm offers a fresh perspective on Plath's life, challenging our assumptions and illuminating the truth behind her enigmatic persona.

Weight: 234g
Dimension: 131 x 196 x 21 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781783786237