Maternity by Georgia Douglas Johnson
The poem explores the complex emotions surrounding motherhood, particularly the tension between pride and apprehension. The speaker reflects on the responsibility of bringing a new life into a world fraught with challenges and societal issues. There is a sense of uncertainty about the future, as the speaker questions whether the child will thrive or suffer under the weight of existing societal conditions. The imagery conveys a deep concern for the child's fate, suggesting that the world may not be a welcoming place. The speaker grapples with feelings of pride in motherhood but is overshadowed by fear and doubt about the child's prospects. The juxtaposition of pride and sorrow highlights the emotional turmoil inherent in the maternal experience. Ultimately, the poem captures the duality of motherhood—where joy is intertwined with anxiety, and the hope for a better future is clouded by the realities of the present. The speaker's contemplation of life and death underscores the gravity of their role, revealing a profound connection to the child while simultaneously acknowledging the harshness of the world they will inherit.
By Georgia Douglas Johnson · First published 1917 · Genre: Poetry, Literary Fiction, Feminist Literature · 151 words
First lines
Proud?
Perhaps -- and yet I cannot say with surety That I am happy thus to be Responsible for this young life's embarking.
Is he not thrall to prevalent conditions?
Does not the day loom dark apace To weave its cordon of disgrace Around his lifted throat?
What this Textopian page supports
Maternity is listed on Textopian as a poem by Georgia Douglas Johnson, dated 1917 CE.
This source record anchors work identity, reading entry points, and catalog context for checking claims about the work.
- Work type: Poem
- Author: Georgia Douglas Johnson
- Date: 1917 CE
- Language: English
- Genres: Poetry, Literary Fiction, Feminist Literature, Existential Literature, Social Commentary
- Length: 151 words
- Structure: 1 section, 9 paragraphs
- Reading fit: Fairly Easy (7th Grade)
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Discussion starters
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Similar titles
- Guardianship by Georgia Douglas Johnson
- The Mother by Georgia Douglas Johnson
- The Heart Of A Woman by Georgia Douglas Johnson
- My Son by Georgia Douglas Johnson
- The Ordeal by Georgia Douglas Johnson
- Nothing And Something by Frances Ellen Watkins Harper
Genres
- Poetry — The work is written in verse, employing poetic devices and structure.
- Literary Fiction — The themes explore deep emotional and existential questions related to motherhood and societal conditions.
- Feminist Literature — The poem addresses the complexities of motherhood and societal expectations placed on women.
- Existential Literature — The text reflects on the nature of existence, responsibility, and the future of the child.
Tags
Poetry · American Literature · Feminism · Motherhood · Identity · Social Justice · Racism · Societal Expectations · Family Dynamics · Marriage · Domesticity · Emancipation