Advice to the Girls
The poem addresses young women, offering guidance on choosing a life partner. It emphasizes the importance of character over superficial attributes. The speaker advises against marrying for physical appearance or social status, suggesting instead that women should seek a partner who is kind, genuine, and possesses common sense. The work critiques societal norms that prioritize external qualities and encourages women to value inner virtues and moral integrity in their relationships. The speaker continues to highlight the significance of mutual respect and emotional support in a marriage. A good partner should be someone who uplifts and encourages personal growth, rather than one who merely dazzles with charm or wealth. The poem advocates for a partnership based on equality and shared values, urging women to prioritize their own happiness and well-being in their choices. Throughout the piece, there is a clear call for self-awareness and empowerment. Women are encouraged to reflect on their desires and needs, rather than conforming to societal expectations. The speaker underscores the idea that true fulfillment in marriage comes from a deep emotional connection and shared life goals, rather than from societal validation or material gain. The work serves as a reminder of the importance of self-respect and the need for women to assert their agency in romantic relationships. It promotes the idea that love should be rooted in mutual understanding and support, rather than in superficial attractions. The poem ultimately champions the notion that women deserve partners who appreciate them for their true selves, fostering a healthy and nurturing environment for both individuals.
By Frances Ellen Watkins Harper · First published 1866 · Genre: Poetry, Advice Literature, Feminist Literature · 110 words
First lines
Nay, do not blush! I only heard / You had a mind to marry; / I thought I'd speak a friendly word, / So just one moment tarry.
Wed not a man whose merit lies / In things of outward show, / In raven hair or flashing eyes.
That please your fancy so.
But marry one who's good and kind, / And free from all pretence; / Who, if without a gifted mind, / At least has common sense.
What this Textopian page supports
Advice to the Girls is listed on Textopian as a poem by Frances Ellen Watkins Harper, dated 1866 CE.
This source record anchors work identity, reading entry points, and catalog context for checking claims about the work.
- Work type: Poem
- Author: Frances Ellen Watkins Harper
- Date: 1866 CE
- Language: English
- Genres: Poetry, Advice Literature, Feminist Literature, Romantic Literature, Social Commentary
- Length: 110 words
- Structure: 1 section, 4 paragraphs
Good citation fit
- Work identity for Advice to the Girls by Frances Ellen Watkins Harper
- Canonical title URL and first readable passage URL
- Genre and topic classification from the Textopian catalog
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Similar titles
- Songs For The People by Frances Ellen Watkins Harper
- Suffrage For Women by John Greenleaf Whittier
- Battle Hymn Of The Women by Ella Wheeler Wilcox
- An Appeal To Woman by Sarah Louisa Forten Purvis
- Fishers Of Men by Frances Ellen Watkins Harper
- The Change by Frances Ellen Watkins Harper
Genres
- Poetry — The work is written in verse, employing poetic devices and structure.
- Advice Literature — The text provides guidance and counsel specifically aimed at young women regarding marriage and personal values.
- Feminist Literature — The themes promote women's empowerment and advocate for choosing partners based on character rather than superficial traits.
- Romantic Literature — The work discusses romantic relationships and the qualities to seek in a partner.
Tags
American Literature · Feminism · Abolitionist · Social Justice · Advice · Self-Help · Women's Rights · Racial Equality · 19th Century · African American · Literary Nonfiction · Essay Collection