Thank you for saying this. I’ve never understood the romanticization of her or her work.
Edit: the downvotes kind of prove my point. I know literary criticism can be emotionally taxing, so if anyone needs assistance after reading my incredibly basic opinion, let me know and I’ll send help.
It’s my opinion. The downvotes alone are kind of proving my point. “Romanticization” doesn’t mean “people appreciate her writing”…it means elevating someone or something beyond reasonable criticism.
Looking at these comments…I’d say that’s exactly what’s happening. I’ve never connected with her work or found it especially impactful. If reading criticism of Sylvia Plath is causing distress, let me know and I’ll call 911.
Believing in or presenting an unrealistically idealized version of something or someone, which is what romanticizing is, inherently involves elevating them beyond reasonable criticism.
So, "elevating someone or something beyond reasonable criticism" is an element of romanticization but not the entire thing.
I’m curious: which part is “wild”? Not connecting with her work? Thinking she’s romanticized? Or making a joke about the reaction? Be specific.
Then tell me what you think romanticizing means. I’m using the dictionary definition of idealizing someone beyond reasonable criticism. If your objection is that Plath isn’t romanticized, say that instead.
It’s okay, I’ll hold your hand. We can process this together.
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u/girlspit Jul 28 '26 edited Jul 28 '26
Thank you for saying this. I’ve never understood the romanticization of her or her work.
Edit: the downvotes kind of prove my point. I know literary criticism can be emotionally taxing, so if anyone needs assistance after reading my incredibly basic opinion, let me know and I’ll send help.