Read "For Fear (the Forerunner)" by Charlotte Perkins Gilman online for free on Textopian. Full text with search, annotations, highlights, and AI-powered reading aids.
For fear of prowling beasts at night / They blocked the cave; / Women and children hid from sight, / Men scarce more brave.
For fear of warrior's sword and spear / They barred the gate; / Women and children lived in fear, / Men lived in hate.
For fear of criminals today / We lock the door; / Women and children still to stay / Hid evermore.
Come out! Ye need no longer hide! / What fear you now? / No wolf nor lion waits outside -- / Only a cow.
Come out! The world approaches peace, / War nears its end; / No warrior watches your release -- / Only a friend.
Come out! The night of crime has fled -- / Day is begun; / Here is no criminal to dread -- / Only your son.
The world, half yours, demands your care, / Waken and come! / Make it a woman's world; safe, fair, / Garden and home.