In the free verse poem “Prism of Thorns”, I utilized enjambment, repetition, and rhetorical questions to emphasize the need for more women’s voices to be heard and the importance of acknowledging that women too can have a great impact on society. 

The title prism of thorns stems from an understanding of how vulnerable not only I am, but also, how vulnerable girls can be in today’s patriarchal society. This highlights the danger and inequality present when women attempt to climb to the peak of a prism made from thorns. The use of enjambment in the poem allows readers to grasp a sense of urgency, creating an atmosphere as if the poem is crafted in a hurried cause, almost out of breath. For instance, in the lines “Our dreams and aspirations/like whispers in a crowded room/become Subdued,/ Drowned,/ Vanquished by traditions/ Silenced too soon”, enjambment imparts a rushed tone, reflecting my attempt to urge equality to happen as soon as possible. The repetition of “we are” in the lines “We are not mere flowers to be adorned,/ We are breaking barriers,/ We are obliterating expectations,/ We are rewriting history” further reflects the idea that women are equally skilled and set to contribute significantly to society. Despite the difficulty in gaining notice at times, women will never cease trying, steadfast in our knowledge that we possess greatness.

Moreover, the use of rhetorical questions directs readers to ponder questions they might not have considered before. For example, the question “What shapes the present day” may open up a new perspective to some readers, inviting them to delve deep into the world’s historical gender disparity and wonder why society is the way it is today.

Nevertheless, this poem conveys a strong voice and urges society to view people on equal footing, regardless of gender. Enjambment, repetition, and rhetorical questions further accentuate the importance of addressing gender inequality. Within the status quo, men typically secure leadership roles, exemplified by the lack of female prime ministers in Canadian history. Additionally, the gender pay gap in sports persists, with women earning considerably less than men. It often appears as if women are starting in a race much later than men, not due to their abilities but their gender. Although this seems to be a long fight, we women will not give up till we receive the recognition we deserve.