Classic and Contemporary Poetry: Explained

"The Women You Are Accustomed To" by Lucille Clifton offers a poignant critique of societal expectations of women, contrasting superficial standards of beauty and behavior with the desire for genuine, impassioned existence. Clifton's work often delves into themes of identity, womanhood, and resistance against constraining norms, and this poem is a compelling exploration of these ideas. Through vivid imagery and a dream-like narrative, Clifton reflects on the disconnect between the performance of femininity and the yearning for authentic connection and expression.

The poem begins with a description of women "wearing that same black dress, / their lips and asses tight; / their bronzed hair set in perfect place," immediately evoking a sense of uniformity and restriction. These women, appearing in the speaker's dream, embody societal ideals of beauty and propriety, adhering to a rigid standard that prioritizes appearance over individuality. The repetition of "their" emphasizes the collective nature of this imposed identity, suggesting a loss of personal distinction in the pursuit of acceptance.

Clifton's mention of "their conversation spiked with the names / of avenues in France" further illustrates the superficiality of the women's interactions, focusing on status symbols and worldly possessions rather than meaningful engagement. This detail serves as a critique of the values upheld by the society that prizes material wealth and superficial markers of success over deeper, more meaningful qualities.

The speaker's challenge, "and when i asked them what the hell," introduces a moment of confrontation, breaking the complacency of the dream with a demand for clarity and authenticity. The women's response, shaking "their marble heads / and walked erect out of my sleep," underscores their unwillingness or inability to engage with the speaker's questioning, retreating instead into the safety of conformity.

The poem concludes with a stark contrast between the cold, impersonal world of the dream women and the warmth of the speaker's thoughts of "you, / your burning blood, your dancing tongue." This shift highlights the speaker's longing for a connection that transcends superficial norms, yearning instead for a relationship grounded in passion, authenticity, and vibrant expression. The imagery of "burning blood" and "dancing tongue" evokes a sense of vitality and dynamism, celebrating qualities that defy the cold, calculated demeanor of the women accustomed to societal approval.

"The Women You Are Accustomed To" is a powerful meditation on the tension between societal expectations and individual authenticity. Through this dream narrative, Clifton challenges readers to reflect on the ways in which societal norms shape and sometimes constrain women's identities and expressions. The poem advocates for a recognition of the beauty and value found in genuine expression and connection, calling into question the standards by which women are often judged and valued.

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