O Patriarchy,
Why wouldn’t you let me cry?
Is it because you are afraid of how a few tears can extinguish your fire?
O Patriarchy,
Why wouldn’t you let me buy those printed shirts and those coloured ties?
Is it because you still relish the monotony of my submission?
O Patriarchy,
Why wouldn’t you let me hold the hands of my lover?
Is it because you have learnt the power of the closed fist of the Resistance?
O Patriarchy,
Why wouldn’t you let me adorn my abode with a flower?
Is it because you have gotten too used to your own stench?
O Patriarchy,
Why wouldn’t you let me crumble and rest?
Is it because our regimented bodies are what make your armies?
O Patriarchy,
Why wouldn’t you let me cook?
Is it because of your fear that our manly hands would spoil your ingenious recipe?
O Patriarchy,
Why wouldn’t you let my rage wither away?
Is it because you are unsure of what then you would consume for dinner?
O Patriarchy,
Why wouldn’t you just leave me alone?
Is it because the stalkers and the rapists that you have birthed would be out of inspiration?
O Patriarchy,
Please leave me alone.
It is because I am tired of carrying your poisonous shadow all the time.