Customer Reviews

I Wouldn't Thank You for a Valentine: Poems For Young Feminists

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In this collection of about 90 poems, Duffy explores many women issues such as race, status, sex, religion, politics, identity, equality. growing up, challenging authority, etc. The anthology includes well-known poets, such as Nikki Giovanni, Sharon Olds, and Mary Oliver, as well as several new voices.

These verses from the poem "Valentine" make one think:

"Not a red rose or a satin heart.

I give you an onion.

It is a moon wrapped in brown paper.

It promises light

like the careful undressing of love.

Here.

It will blind you with tears

like a lover.

It will make your reflection

a wobbling photo of grief.

I am trying to be truthful.

Not a cute card or a kissogram.

I give you an onion.

Its fierce kiss will stay on your lips,

possessive and faithful

as we are,

for as long as we are.

Take it.

Its platinum loops shrink to a wedding-ring,

if you like.

Lethal.

Its scent will cling to your fingers,

cling to your knife."

Joyce Akesson, author of Love's Thrilling Dimensions

The peoms were very moving to those who understand peoms very well. for the self confidence people the poem "Phenomenal Woman" is a great poem. others like "Anno Wrek Sick" and "Don't Ever slap me again, are just some of my favorites. I would reccomend this book to girls 11 and up

Duffy's collection of poetry is a varied one, with poems ranging from light and whimsical to thought-provoking or painful. Apparently meant for teenage girls, although many of the poems are adult in complexity, it seems a good collection from which a teacher could spark teen dialgue on a variety of important issues. Themes include race, gender, sex, ethnicity, adolescence, travel, animal rights, handicaps, et.al., not overtly didactic in nature. The poems are written in simple language, but the depth of meaning and the wisdom of experience call for some adult guidance in interpretation for some poems (and lend them themselves to being equally enjoyed by older "girls").

A few standouts: Satyamurti's "Disabled Swimmer's Night," Rawnsley's "Good Girls," Fanthorpe's "Women Laughing," and Duffy's "Lovesick."

Recommended for teachers of teens, as poetry teens will enjoy, or as discussion starters on many important issues. Also enjoyable to women of all ages who enjoy women's poetry.