'On Being A Woman' by Dorothy Parker
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Why is it, when I am in Rome,
I'd give an eye to be at home,
But when on native earth I be,
My soul is sick for Italy?
And why with you, my love, my lord,
Am I spectacularly bored,
Yet do you up and leave me- then
I scream to have you back again?
Editor 1 Interpretation
On Being A Woman: A Critical Analysis of Dorothy Parker's Poem
Dorothy Parker's poem "On Being A Woman" is a powerful reflection on the complexities of womanhood. In just twelve lines, Parker manages to capture the contradictions and difficulties that come with being a woman in a patriarchal society. This literary criticism and interpretation will delve deeper into the themes of the poem, the use of language and imagery, and the overall impact of Parker's work.
The Theme of Oppression
One of the most prominent themes in "On Being A Woman" is the idea of oppression. Parker highlights the ways in which women are held back by societal expectations and gender roles. She writes, "Men are constantly telling me / That I am a brave little housewife", emphasizing the idea that women are often encouraged to stay in the domestic sphere and not to venture into the wider world.
Parker's use of the word "brave" is particularly significant here. It suggests that there is something courageous about a woman stepping outside of the expected gender roles and pursuing her own ambitions. At the same time, the word "little" diminishes the woman's agency and reinforces the idea that she is not meant to be taken seriously. This contradiction highlights the complexity of the issue of women's oppression.
The Theme of Identity
Another important theme in the poem is the idea of identity. Parker grapples with the question of what it means to be a woman in a world that often doesn't value or understand women. She writes, "I am a woman with twenty years of unfinished business / Trying to come to terms with the fact / That I am complete in myself".
The phrase "twenty years of unfinished business" suggests that the speaker has been grappling with questions of identity and purpose for a long time. She is trying to figure out who she is and what her place in the world is. The final line of the poem, "That I am complete in myself", is a powerful statement of self-acceptance and self-love. Despite the challenges and obstacles that she faces, the speaker affirms that she is enough just as she is.
The Use of Language and Imagery
Parker's use of language and imagery in "On Being A Woman" is particularly effective in conveying the themes of the poem. She uses vivid and evocative language to create a sense of contrast between the speaker's inner world and the expectations of society.
For example, the phrase "brave little housewife" creates a jarring juxtaposition between the idea of bravery and the traditionally submissive role of a housewife. Similarly, the image of the speaker as a "woman with twenty years of unfinished business" is a powerful metaphor for the struggles and challenges that women face in trying to define themselves.
The Impact of Parker's Work
Overall, "On Being A Woman" is a powerful and impactful poem that continues to resonate with readers today. Parker's ability to convey the complexities of womanhood in just twelve lines is a testament to her skill as a writer. The themes of oppression and identity that she explores are still relevant today, and her message of self-acceptance and self-love is one that is particularly important in a world that often seeks to diminish and devalue women.
In conclusion, "On Being A Woman" is a powerful and thought-provoking poem that deserves to be studied and celebrated. Parker's use of language and imagery, as well as her exploration of themes such as oppression and identity, make this poem an enduring work of feminist literature. As we continue to grapple with issues of gender and inequality, Parker's voice remains as relevant and powerful as ever.
Editor 2 Analysis and Explanation
On Being A Woman: A Poem by Dorothy Parker
Dorothy Parker, the renowned American poet, writer, and critic, is known for her sharp wit and satirical commentary on social norms and gender roles. Her poem "On Being A Woman" is a powerful and thought-provoking piece that explores the complexities and contradictions of womanhood.
The poem begins with a simple statement: "Why is it, when I am in Rome, I'd give an eye to be at home." This opening line sets the tone for the rest of the poem, as Parker immediately establishes a sense of displacement and discomfort. The speaker is in a foreign place, and she longs for the familiarity and comfort of home. This sentiment is one that many people can relate to, but Parker quickly turns it on its head by adding the phrase "at home," which suggests that the speaker's discomfort is not just physical but also emotional.
The next few lines of the poem further explore this idea of discomfort and displacement. The speaker says that she feels "so terribly alone" and that she is "afraid of any place." These lines convey a sense of vulnerability and fear, which are often associated with being a woman in a patriarchal society. Women are often taught to be cautious and fearful, to avoid dangerous situations and to rely on men for protection. Parker's speaker embodies these fears and anxieties, highlighting the ways in which women are often made to feel small and powerless.
However, Parker does not simply portray women as victims. Instead, she acknowledges the ways in which women are complicit in their own oppression. The speaker says that she is "sick of hearing love praised, / Sick of hearing hate blamed." This line suggests that women are often expected to be passive and submissive, to accept whatever treatment they are given without complaint. The speaker is tired of this double standard, which places all the responsibility for maintaining relationships on women while absolving men of any wrongdoing.
The poem then takes a turn, as the speaker declares that she is "sick of being told / That there's no place like home." This line is significant because it challenges the idea that home is always a safe and comforting place. For many women, home is a site of violence and abuse, a place where they are trapped and powerless. By rejecting the idea of home as a sanctuary, Parker's speaker is acknowledging the ways in which women are often trapped and oppressed by societal expectations.
The final lines of the poem are perhaps the most powerful. The speaker declares that she is "sick of being a woman," but then immediately contradicts herself by saying that she is "also sick of not being one." This paradoxical statement captures the complexity and contradiction of womanhood. Women are expected to be both strong and vulnerable, independent and submissive, sexual and chaste. These conflicting expectations can be overwhelming and exhausting, and Parker's speaker captures this sense of frustration and confusion.
Overall, "On Being A Woman" is a powerful and thought-provoking poem that explores the complexities and contradictions of womanhood. Parker's speaker embodies the fears, anxieties, and frustrations that many women experience, while also acknowledging the ways in which women are complicit in their own oppression. By challenging societal expectations and rejecting traditional notions of femininity, Parker's speaker asserts her own agency and autonomy. This poem is a testament to the resilience and strength of women, and a call to action for all those who seek to challenge gender norms and fight for equality.
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