1990’s
Obey like a woman.
Don’t dare to disagree.
Do what he says.
“You are just a woman, I’m the man of the house.”
Stay within your limit.
You don’t get to dream.
Act like a lady.
Don’t slouch.
Always smile – look presentable.
“Go powder your nose.”
Don’t eat too much;
starve if you need too.
Look like you’re a girl.
Fair complexion.
Silhouette figure.
“you need to fit into size zero jeans”
Don’t try to be different;
different is ugly.
2000’s
Lead like a woman.
Challenge those who question you.
Do what you want to do.
Break and go beyond those limits.
Allow your dreams to lead your life.
Act like a lady.
Stand tall and let your self pride radiate to every dark memory you’ve had.
Always smile and don’t let those tears hold you back.
Fuck the haters.
Embrace the power of femininity.
Look like a girl.
Shades of beauty don’t come in just one colour.
No queen fits into the same size jeans.
Be unique;
unique is beautiful.
This poem was actually inspired by something I read online about how different woman’s roles are in the 21rst century as compared to the 20th century and I was so intrigued by this idea that I really wanted to capture what was trying to be portrayed in the image I saw online. I decided to do a somewhat reflection and imagined two woman standing in front of each other and being told these things in their respective eras. Furthermore I also wanted to keep the repetition going because I wanted to show how much time and thinking has changed from 100 years ago to today and how it will continue to change whether it will be positive or negative. I believe as I was writing this I actually had awaken the feminist part of my soul and a fraction of that into this piece. I hope you guys like it!!