Introduction
“Girl” by Jamaica Kincaid represents the conversation between a mother and her daughter. The girl is given instructions to help her become a woman with specific traits and behavioral patterns expected by society. By applying the literary theory of feminist criticism to this work, it can be proved that the author emphasizes the inferior role of women in society, their oppression, and the problems of gender inequality.
Feminist Analysis of Kincaid’s Girl
First of all, the author highlights how many expectations and obligations women face. In the fable “Girl,” it is said, ” Wash the white clothes on Monday and put them on the stone heap; wash the colored clothes on Tuesday and put them on the clothesline to dry” (Kincaid 1 line). These lines are about a woman’s position as a housekeeper whose value is in cleaning the home and satisfying men.
In particular, the significance of expectations is reflected in multiple regulations and rules that should be followed by a woman – from her household duties to how she should eat, walk, talk, and smile. For instance, it is said, “this is how you smile to someone you don’t like too much; this is how you smile to someone you don’t like at all” (Kincaid 31 line). These words indicate the ignorance of women’s feelings and emotions. From the admonition given by the mother to her daughter, it can be inferred that a woman should be an obedient servant. She should not show temper and should always be elegant.
In addition, it is impossible to ignore how many times the mother repeats the word “slut.” Deeply interconnected with sexuality, it probably indicates the girl’s entering puberty and the mother’s attempts to control her senses in accordance with societal expectations of a woman’s neatness, cleanliness, and purity. Moreover, the poem states, “Don’t squat down to play marbles—you are not a boy” (Kincaid 24 line). Analyzing this expression, it is possible to assume that the girl’s mother was deeply convinced that women are not equal to men. In particular, on the basis of their perceived inferiority, women are expected to have different activities, interests, and duties. Therefore, the girl should not be interested in activities that have historically been considered masculine.
Conclusion
To conclude, “Girl” reflects women’s historical oppression and inequality reflected in literature. The mother’s recommendations form the overall impression of a woman who is expected to be obedient, modest, and generally inferior. Women should fulfill the historical roles of housewife, lover, and mother.
Work Cited
Kincaid, Jamaica. “Girl.” Creative Writing. Routledge, 2013. 478-479. Web.