"I Am Not That Woman" is a powerful poem written by Pakistani feminist poet Kishwar Naheed. In this poem, Naheed asserts her identity and agency as a woman, refusing to be defined by traditional gender roles and expectations.
The poem begins with the phrase "I am not that woman," which immediately sets the tone of defiance and resistance. Naheed rejects the notion that women should be submissive and obedient, and instead asserts her own voice and identity. She declares that she is not a "meek and timid creature," but rather a strong and independent woman who is capable of making her own choices and decisions.
Throughout the poem, Naheed challenges various societal expectations placed on women, such as the expectation to be a good wife and mother, to be beautiful and attractive, and to conform to traditional gender roles. She rejects these expectations and asserts her own identity, declaring that she is not defined by her appearance or her relationship to men.
One of the most powerful lines in the poem is "I am not a toy / To be played with by men." This line highlights the objectification of women and the way in which they are often treated as mere objects for men's pleasure. Naheed rejects this treatment and declares that she is a person with her own thoughts, feelings, and desires.
In the final stanza, Naheed addresses the men who try to control and oppress women, telling them that they will not succeed. She declares that women will rise up and fight against their oppression, and that they will no longer be silenced or oppressed.
Overall, "I Am Not That Woman" is a powerful and poignant poem that speaks to the struggle of women to assert their identity and agency in a society that often seeks to define and control them. Naheed's words resonate with many women who have faced similar challenges and encourage them to stand up for themselves and their rights.
Poetry Analysis: Kishwar Naheed’s “I am not that Woman”
She needs to remind and alert the exploiter that despite the fact that she has been taken cover behind the walls, her voice can't be covered. The rest of line gives us the impression that this poem has not been directed for any ordinary audience. She seems strong inside but does not show these true colours on the outside to everybody, so she is thought of as another Eastern woman. While she is aware that the oppressor is as free as the wind, she is crushed under the weight of customs and traditions. Parents are also accused of marrying off their daughters just to feel free of a burden and to fulfill their duty but she says that the actual need is not only fulfilling duties but to change to conservative mindset of the society which presently do not seem to change. Indeed, even the parents thought of her as a burden, which brought about early marriage. Hence, Naheed has undergone a huge change in her character.
I Am Not that Women, Poem by Kishwar Naheed: Summary Analysis Essay Example
The difference is a positive statement where she is recognises that she is an individual who cannot be abused. However, although both poems represent oppression, it is expressed in two entirely different ways. The rhythm changes as it goes a lot slower now, she is now describing what she wants not what she has to do. A metaphor is A direct comparison between two unlike things, stating that one is the other or does the action of the other. The message she gives through this particular poem is an objection, what is that objection is a mystery soon to be uncovered. According to the speaker, people took advantage of her by taking flowers and replacing them with thorns and ashes.
I AM NOT THAT WOMAN
I am the one you married off To get rid of a burden Not knowing That a nation of captive minds Cannot be free. She has accompanied her mother and sisters to visit few women who were attacked. When attempts were made to drown her, the people in question underestimated her powers as she could even walk on water. Naheed employs a metaphor in the second stanza, referring to herself, or rather, to all womankind, as light. She was choked in the purpose of unnecessary traditions and customs. She is not interested in being treated solely for the sake of chastity, motherhood, and loyalty. You can read the full poem here.
"I am not that woman" by Kishwar Naheed Essay
Women were viewed more as a commodity to be exchanged than as human beings, jeopardising their virginity, motherhood, and loyalty. The racism is most likely to come from white South African men. Everyday is structured by the harsh reality of life. While she knows that the oppressor is just about as free as the breeze, she is squashed under the heaviness of traditions and customs. While it is logical that males would keep their wives within to protect them from the perils of the street, Naheed is emphasising that women are kept indoors because they are considered inferior and a burden. She declares that darkness can't disguise light.
