Julie Tagg| Think and Write for CSEC English A and B

Write an essay discussing the poems “A Stone’s Throw” and “The Woman Speaks to the Man Who has Employed her Son”. The essay should briefly describe what is happening in each poem, the speaker’s attitude towards the woman in each poem, and examine one device that is used to effectively convey the treatment of women.

The poems “A Stone’s Throw” and “The Woman Speaks to the Man Who Has Employed Her Son” both delve into the issue of gender inequality and the treatment of women in certain societies.

“A Stone’s Throw” portrays the patriarchal system that prevails in some societies and its impact on women. The speaker describes the violent stoning of a woman, presumably for committing adultery. The poem evokes a sense of empathy and understanding towards the woman, who is a victim of unfair social norms. The speaker condemns the men who carried out the punishment and highlights the injustice of the situation.

“The Woman Speaks to the Man Who Has Employed Her Son” portrays the powerlessness of women in situations where men make decisions that affect their lives. The speaker is a mother pleading with her son’s employer to release him from military service. The poem highlights the inequality between men and women in society and the difficulties women face in trying to change their circumstances. The speaker’s tone is one of desperation and helplessness, which reflects the struggles of many women in patriarchal societies.

Both poems use vivid imagery to convey the treatment of women. In “A Stone’s Throw,” the image of the stoning is described in detail, creating a sense of shock and horror towards the brutal treatment of women in some cultures. The image of the stones hitting the woman emphasizes the violence and injustice of the situation. In “The Woman Speaks to the Man Who Has Employed Her Son,” the image of a mother pleading with the employer is a powerful portrayal of the woman’s vulnerability and helplessness.

Finally, the speakers of both poems show sympathy towards the women and condemn their mistreatment. The poems serve as a reminder that women are often victims of oppression and discrimination, and their voices must be heard. The use of imagery effectively conveys the treatment of women and highlights the inequality between men and women in society. These poems provide powerful social commentaries on the struggles of women in societies where they are often marginalized and suppressed.