" The next five months are grim ones. I always feel sorry to have the summertime change, with the dark evenings closing in mid-afternoon, and will try to lay in some physical comforts these months – the best insurance against gloominess for me. "
- Sylvia Plath

The quote speaks to a period of personal reflection and preparation during the transition from late summer into autumn. The author anticipates that the next few months will be challenging, with shorter days and longer nights as daylight diminishes earlier each afternoon. To combat the gloomy atmosphere brought on by these changes, she plans to create a comfortable environment filled with physical comforts.

This quote delves deeper into themes of resilience and self-care during times of transition or difficulty. The author's willingness to prepare for tough periods demonstrates an understanding that external circumstances can significantly affect one’s mood and well-being. By laying in “physical comforts,” the author is advocating for nurturing oneself through material comfort, such as cozy blankets, warm lighting, and pleasant scents. This strategy serves not only as a means of personal resilience but also as a form of self-love and acceptance during challenging times.

The quote is from Sylvia Plath, an influential American poet and writer known for her introspective and often dark poetry that explores themes such as depression, illness, and family relationships. Born in 1932, Plath authored several notable works including “The Bell Jar,” a semi-autobiographical novel reflecting on her own mental health struggles, and the posthumously published collection of poems titled “Ariel.” Her work is celebrated for its raw emotional depth and unflinching examination of the human condition.