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What is the theme of the poem Bequest?

What is the theme of the poem Bequest?

1 Answer

  1. Patriarchy, feminine identity, womanhood, and tradition vs. independence are the main themes in “Bequest.” As a feminist poet, De Souza examines the subtleties of traditional, patriarchal society and how they affect women’s minds. She writes her poem from the viewpoint of a speaker whose perspective has been shaped since childhood. She has been forced to alter her openness and sincerity to become a “Wise Woman” by a patriarchal society. Her smile no longer reflects her heart’s true happiness. Instead, it highlights how artificial her feelings were. In the last lines, she states that as a form of sacrifice, she has only her heart to bequeath to her partner.

    Bequest Summary

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