By Shandhini S
A child makes a woman complete — I was told.
A stomach, liver, two kidneys, eyes, ears, mouth, nose,
And most importantly, a thinking brain doesn’t make me complete.
I need a uterus — one that was rented, occupied, and evicted.
Now, that would make me complete.
No, the pulsating heart, which loves, cares, and mothers family and
friends does not count — I was told.
I don’t need a feeling heart.
I need a crying mass of flesh,
which has me screaming and bleeding, coming straight from my body.
Now, that would make me complete.
I have a biological mother and numerous adopted mothers.
I have a dysfunctional father and several functional father figures.
I have aunts, uncles, and their children.
I love them all.
I mother my parents, my friends, and the children of my friends.
Yet I’m deemed incomplete as I do not have a uterus that was rented and vacated.
Not once. Not ever.
And hence, I’m an incomplete mother.
With a beating heart, a thinking brain, and an empty uterus.
Poem mirror the exact societal issue and stereotypes of people minds. You are right most people do not value the real personality instead possessions makes the identity in this world. Your words are like lashes with sharp connotation. I really appreciate your bold move with the express your thoughts through words. Great efforts, wish you success always.
This poem reflects profound thought and sensitivity, offering a message that deserves to be heard and understood by both men and women. It is a commendable contribution that reminds us that every woman embodies the essence of motherhood.
Heartfelt appreciation to Shanu for penning such powerful and thought-provoking lines that resonate deeply.🫂
Beautifully written on the harsh truth that most people find hard to digest. More ways to go 💥
“This poem is honest and touching. It questions the idea that a woman is complete only if she gives birth. The words are clear and powerful, showing that love, care, and kindness matter more than having a child. A strong and beautiful piece of writing."
On a personal note..
More love to you, Shanu ❤️ For those who still think a woman’s value is only in childbirth, this is the truth they need to hear. 🦋
Insightful, poignant and poetically refreshing
The poem criticises the notion of the society which gives it own definition to be a ‘woman’ irrespective of understanding their feelings. A beautiful poem attacking the attitude of the patriarchal society and detailing the pain of a woman who is childless.
The agony and pain of a woman who choose to or been forced medically to not having a child is depicted so clearly and painfully. I personally have dear ones who go through this and can relate to their pain and frustration of the stigma put by the society. A simple but strong eye opener for a grave topic. Excellently penned down.
Strong images and a message that’s sad and true. We need to rethink our image of a Mother. Evocative, harsh reality put into stark words that make one bow one’s head in shame. Well written, well expressed.