Classic and Contemporary Poetry: Explained

Carolyn Kizer's poem "Pro Femina: One" is a compelling exploration of the historical and cultural challenges faced by women, as well as a celebration of their resilience and evolving roles. The poem employs a blend of irony, critique, and hope, capturing the complexities of women's struggle for equality and recognition.

The poem opens with an allusion to the ancient Greek poet Sappho, who is often regarded as a symbol of female literary prowess and emotional depth. By invoking Sappho, Kizer immediately places her discussion within a long tradition of women's voices: "From Sappho to myself, consider the fate of women. / How unwomanly to discuss it!" This line sets a tone of defiance, as the speaker acknowledges the societal expectation that women should not openly discuss their own plight.

Kizer uses vivid and striking imagery to describe the constraints placed on women, comparing them to a "noose or an albatross necktie." These metaphors suggest the suffocating and burdensome nature of societal expectations. The phrase "codpiece coveters" humorously yet pointedly highlights the absurdity of the accusations often leveled at women for desiring the power and freedoms traditionally reserved for men.

The poet critiques the historical portrayal of women by male writers like Juvenal, Strindberg, and Nietzsche. These men, known for their misogynistic views, depicted women as vengeful and deceitful. Kizer acknowledges these portrayals while subverting them, suggesting that women's so-called vices stemmed from their marginalization: "Women abused their spouses, cuckolded them, even plotted / To poison them." She extends a form of forgiveness to these male critics, recognizing their inability to forget or truly understand women: "We forgive all those / Who cannot forget us."

The poem transitions to a broader historical perspective, highlighting the relentless pursuit of freedom by women: "While men have politely debated free will, we have howled for it, / Howl still, pacing the centuries, tragedy heroines." This powerful imagery evokes the centuries-long struggle of women to assert their autonomy and challenge patriarchal norms. The reference to "tragedy heroines" connects contemporary women's struggles to those of iconic female figures in literature and history.

Kizer's critique extends to the roles imposed on women, from domestic labor to passive religious worship: "Who, vague-eyed and acquiescent, worshiped God as a man. / I’m not concerned with those cabbageheads, not truly feminine / But neutered by labor." This dismissal of traditional, subservient roles underscores her focus on "real women" who actively engage with the world and seek change.

The poem celebrates the progress women have made, acknowledging their newfound freedoms and responsibilities: "Freed in fact, not in custom, lifted from furrow and scullery." Kizer contrasts this liberation with the traditional, restricted roles women have historically occupied. She recognizes the pain and effort required to bring forth new life and new ideas: "Respect for life because it hurts so much to come out with it."

Kizer concludes with a vision of hope and transformation. She invokes the ancient Chinese strategy of absorbing invaders and adapting to new circumstances, suggesting that women, with their unique perspectives and experiences, can bring about significant change: "Give us just a few decades / Of grace, to encourage the fine art of acquiescence / And we might save the race." This call for a period of understanding and adaptation underscores her belief in women's potential to lead and transform society.

"Pro Femina: One" by Carolyn Kizer is a rich, multifaceted exploration of women's history, struggles, and potential. Through vivid imagery, historical references, and a blend of critique and hope, Kizer captures the complexities of women's journey towards equality and recognition, celebrating their resilience and envisioning a brighter future.

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