The Bell Jar Quotes
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Source: The Bell Jar
Author: Sylvia Plath
I took a deep breath and listened to the old brag of my heart: I am, I am, I am.
Context
Since The Bell Jar is written by poet extraordinaire Sylvia Plath, it makes sense that it's chock full of poetic lines like this one.
This quote comes from Esther when she's at Joan's funeral, right before she's supposed to have her exit interview and possibly leave the psychiatric institution. Esther has reached a crucial moment at which she might be able to rid herself of her past and start a new life back in society.
She's trying to calm herself down and reassure herself of her place in the world. Unlike Joan, she's still alive ("I am, I am, I am"); the brag of her heart is its beat, which not only proves her literal life, but also mirrors a sense of stability that is increasing within her.
Where you've heard it
People are really into this quote. Like tattoos-on-wrists into it.
Pretentious Factor
If you were to drop this quote at a dinner party, would you get an in-unison "awww" or would everyone roll their eyes and never invite you back? Here it is, on a scale of 1-10.
You may have read this quote with the word "bray" instead of "brag." It's unclear where the "bray" came from (maybe people just thought it made more sense?), but all the Plath smarty-pants agree that "brag" is correct.
Just don't mention any of that when you quote it, or the 3 will skyrocket to a solid 8.