Here are some key aspects of the context of "Blessing":
1. Patriarchal Society: The poem is rooted in the context of a patriarchal society, where men hold power and authority over women. Women are expected to be submissive and obedient, and their roles are often limited to domestic duties and childbearing.
2. Objectification of Women: The poem highlights how women's bodies are often seen as objects to be admired, desired, and controlled by men. The lines, "They will praise you with open mouths/They will bless your face and breasts," suggest that women's bodies are valued primarily for their physical attributes rather than their inner qualities or intellect.
3. Loss of Identity: The poem explores the loss of identity that women can experience in a patriarchal society. The line, "You are a clay vessel/To be filled and emptied/Again and again," symbolizes how women's identities are often defined by their reproductive function rather than their own desires and aspirations.
4. Resistance and Agency: Despite the oppressive nature of the patriarchal system, the poem also hints at the possibility of resistance and agency for women. The line, "You will say no," suggests that women have the power to assert their own will and refuse to conform to societal expectations.
5. Blessing and Subversion: The title of the poem, "Blessing," is used ironically to subvert the traditional concept of blessings. The poem challenges the idea that women's bodies and experiences should be celebrated and blessed solely for their reproductive capabilities and subservience to men. Instead, it offers a more nuanced and empowering perspective on women's lives and identities.
Overall, the context of "Blessing" is that of a patriarchal society that restricts and controls women's bodies and identities. The poem critiques these oppressive structures while also offering a glimmer of hope for women's resistance and self-determination.