Author's Note
In An Anthology of Feminist Poetry Through Time, we examine seven pieces of poetry that demonstrate the strength of the spirit of women in their recognition and voicing of personal expression and the existing gender inequality in society, throughout different periods in history. Included are seven poems, of varying lengths and forms, that are organized based on date, starting with the oldest poem, and advancing to the most recent, since the anthology is examining feminist poetry through time. Each poem has a transcription, and “Fragment 16,” “Ariel,” “Siren Song,” “Dandelion,” and “Strength” have annotations, as well. In the anthology, there is also an interpretation of “Siren Song” and a defense of poetry, along with a works cited page. These poems were chosen for their depth, their origin of many different time periods, authors, and places, yet for the reason that they all exemplify a feminist tone. The theme of this anthology is feminist poetry through time, and not just the display of feminism, but the idea that throughout different decades and in different places, the female spirit has always had the capability to identify and express the value of femininity and the gender inequality that exists within society. From the 7th century BC to 2015, many of the same themes and issues are identified in the poetry written by these bold women. For example, “Ariel” from 1965 deals with the idea that women are defined by their sexuality, caught in a “biological prison” in which they are inferior to men and that limit them. The 2013 poem “Shrinking Women,” deals with the same idea, that women are taught to “grow in” instead of out, and how their gender expectations limit them daily. Throughout the decades, these same issues concerning women are expressed, demonstrating that even despite progress made through many important movements, like the women’s suffrage movement discussed in “Dandelion,” we still have a long way to go, hence the need for feminism. So enjoy exploring the powerful voice of women through time, within the poetry in this anthology. Identify with the authors, identify with the issues, and resolve yourself to be a feminist voice too!
Maddie Hanson
Maddie Hanson