Classic and Contemporary Poetry: Explained

FOR DAUGHTERS OF MAGDALEN, by COUNTEE CULLEN Poet Analysis Poet's Biography

"For Daughters of Magdalen" by Countee Cullen is a poignant and succinct reflection on the plight of women who have been marginalized due to their perceived sins, specifically referring to the so-called "fallen women" associated with the Magdalene asylums. These institutions, named after Mary Magdalene, who was often portrayed as a repentant prostitute in Christian tradition (though this interpretation is debated among scholars), were established to house and reform women who were considered promiscuous or involved in prostitution.

The opening line, "Ours is the ancient story," instantly connects the subject of the poem to a long history of women being judged and ostracized for their actions, particularly those related to sexuality. By stating "Ours," Cullen may be evoking a collective voice, either aligning himself with the marginalized women or speaking on behalf of a society that perpetuates such narratives.

"Delicate flowers of sin," presents an intriguing juxtaposition. Flowers, typically symbols of purity and beauty, are here labeled with sin, suggesting that these women, despite societal condemnation, retain their inherent worth and dignity. The adjective "delicate" underscores their vulnerability in the face of judgment and societal punishment.

"Lilies, arrayed in glory," further elaborates on this imagery. Lilies are often associated with purity and resurrection in Christian symbolism, which may imply a redemption or reclaiming of dignity for these women. The phrase "arrayed in glory" suggests a transformation or an assertion of their inherent value, in contrast to the shame imposed upon them.

"That would not toil or spin." echoes a biblical reference from Matthew 6:28, where Jesus observes that lilies do not toil or spin, yet Solomon in all his glory was not arrayed like one of these. In the context of this poem, this line might suggest that these women, despite not conforming to societal expectations of labor and modesty, possess a dignity and beauty that surpass worldly judgments.

"For Daughters of Magdalen" is a powerful, albeit brief, critique of societal attitudes towards women labeled as sinners, offering a nuanced perspective that challenges traditional narratives of sin and redemption. Through the metaphor of lilies, Cullen highlights the complexity of these women's experiences, suggesting both the injustice of their marginalization and the possibility of their inherent glory and redemption.

POEM TEXT:

Ours is the ancient

Delicate flowers of sin,

Lilies, arrayed in glory,

That would not toil or spin.