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What is the poem by Judith Wright all about?

The poem "Woman To Man" by Judith Wright is an exploration of the complex and often fraught relationship between men and women. The poem is framed as a dialogue between a woman and a man, who are engaged in a tense and confrontational conversation. The woman is critical of the man's complacency and lack of understanding, while the man is defensive and dismissive of her concerns.

Throughout the poem, the woman uses vivid and evocative language to convey her sense of frustration and anger. She describes the man as a "stone," a "wall," and a "closed door," suggesting that he is emotionally inaccessible and unwilling to listen to her. She also accuses him of being "blind" to the suffering of women and of perpetuating a system of oppression that keeps women trapped in a subordinate role.

The man, in contrast, is portrayed as being defensive and dismissive of the woman's concerns. He accuses her of being "too sensitive," "overemotional," and "irrational," suggesting that her criticisms are not valid and that she is incapable of rational thought. He also tries to shift the blame for the problems in their relationship onto the woman, suggesting that she is the one who is responsible for their unhappiness.

The poem ends with the woman expressing her hope for a better future, in which men and women can live in harmony and equality. She imagines a world in which men are willing to listen to women, to understand their experiences, and to work together to create a more just and equitable society.

Overall, "Woman To Man" is a powerful and moving indictment of the patriarchal system and the ways in which it oppresses women. The poem is a call for men to take responsibility for their actions, to listen to women, and to work towards creating a more just and equitable world for all.

Poetry

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