top of page
Search
Writer's picturedewihajarra2

Interpretation of 'A Poem' by Rupi Kaur

Updated: Apr 7, 2022





This poem describes the author's satire aimed at the stigma of society against women. In this poem, the writer apologizes because she is called beautiful before she is called intelligent or brave. On the other hand, the writer also positions herself as someone who calls a woman beautiful before calling her intelligent and brave.


---

I want to apologize to all the women

I have called pretty.

before I’ve called them intelligent or brave

---


From these first three lines, it might explain that the first thing which is seen from a woman by society is her physical beauty. In fact, behind her physical beauty, there is an intelligent and brave soul. However, the soul is covered by physical beauty. Many women have a good soul like this. However, because of her physique which is considered less beautiful by society, then the soul is no longer meaningful.


---

I am sorry I made it sound as though

something as simple as what you’re born with

is the most you have to be proud of

---


In the second three lines, the writer still positions herself as someone who calls a woman beautiful. She apologized for making the women's lives more limited and though. In fact, women are born with a beautiful and perfect personality, regardless the shape. This is something that a woman should be grateful for and proud of.


---

when your spirit has crushed mountains

from now on i will say things like, you are resilient

or, you are extraordinary.

---

In the third three lines, the author still puts herself in the same point of view. She positions women as the second person (you). Women here are described as very brave. In fact, to emphasize the meaning of courage, the author uses a hyperbole, where the spirit of women is so high and it can crushed a mountain. In fact, many women in this world are contributing to society at large. Her position in society is very important and determines the desires of many people. Therefore, the spirit of these women cannot be underestimated.


---

not because i don’t think you’re pretty.

but because you are so much more than that

---


From these passionate women, the writer then praises women that they are resilient and extraordinary. This compliment is not to say that women are not beautiful. However, this shows that women are more than just beautiful on her physique. But she can also be someone who plays a big role for those around her.

16 views0 comments

Recent Posts

See All

Comments


bottom of page