Red Comet: The Short Life and Blazing Art of Sylvia Plath
1154
Autobiography / Memoir • Nonfiction
England • 1950s-1960s
•
Mental Illness•
World History2020
Adult
18+ years
Red Comet: The Short Life and Blazing Art of Sylvia Plath by Heather Clark explores the life and literary contributions of poet Sylvia Plath. The biography delves into Plath's personal experiences, creative process, and the challenges she faced, offering a comprehensive view of her impact on literature and culture.
Melancholic
Contemplative
Emotional
Informative
Bittersweet
5,182 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Heather Clark’s Red Comet is lauded for its meticulous research and depth, offering a nuanced portrayal of Sylvia Plath's life and work. Clark’s empathetic approach and extensive detail illuminate Plath beyond her tragic end, though some find the length daunting. Overall, it revitalizes interest in Plath with a balanced perspective on her artistry and struggles.
A reader who enjoys Red Comet: The Short Life and Blazing Art of Sylvia Plath likely appreciates in-depth literary biographies and has an interest in 20th-century poetry. Similar readers may have enjoyed Virginia Woolf by Hermione Lee or The Silent Woman: Sylvia Plath and Ted Hughes by Janet Malcolm.
5,182 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Red Comet: The Short Life and Blazing Art of Sylvia Plath by Heather Clark was a finalist for the 2021 Pulitzer Prize in Biography, highlighting its critical acclaim and impact in literary circles.
Heather Clark's biography is notable for its detailed research and reevaluation of Sylvia Plath's life, challenging the mythologized view of Plath as solely a tragic figure.
Subscribe to discover more Fun Facts!
The book draws from a wealth of previously untapped archival materials, including unpublished letters and manuscripts, providing new insights into Plath's creativity and personal struggles.
Subscribe to discover more Fun Facts!
1154
Autobiography / Memoir • Nonfiction
England • 1950s-1960s
•
Mental Illness•
World History2020
Adult
18+ years
We’re just getting started
Add this title to our list of requested Study Guides!