Anitaelise

The Stages of My Life | Definitions

Exploring Patriarchy Chapter 20 –

It used to be Baby ‘cos they saw I was young
the one they looked after when her parents weren’t around.
Then, it was Didi – the elder sister
a young adult woman without a ‘Mister’.

MM’s Story:

The role of the Indian woman is defined very differently from that of the Indian man. Her career, education or income level matter very little. What seems to be important to society is her personal choices. Or those that are made for her by her family. And by the God’s.

A Cure For Cellphone Addiction | Do You Ever?

Exploring Patriarchy Chapter 19 – He loved his work and his hobbies and didn’t wish to sacrifice these things. So he did something she’d been asking him to do for a long time without much success. He started to put aside his cellphone on the weekends!

Poem: Do You Ever?

Do you ever leave your house without your phone
call up somebody who lives alone
feel grateful for the friend who was there through the sad
let your maid have a day off when her back is bad?

To Be A Better Wife

To be a better wife I need a husband who’s here…

The lyrics of ‘To Be A Better Wife’ are written to the music of Here There and Everywhere – a song composed and written by the Beatles. I wrote this during the lockdown of 2020.

Healing The Gender Divide

Exploring Patriarchy Chapter 18 – Male Rage is different from anger that is a part of the normal range of human behaviour because it isn’t natural, but created by a system we need to leave behind. MM had seen this rage many times in the lives of many women she knew.

I Could Look At You In Envy

I could look at you in envy for all the things you have
the ease with which you cope and your luck when things get bad.

You show me I can shape my world and bring that little ease.
That when the wind is strong we might need to bend, or sway like those sturdy old trees…

Space Within Barriers | My Greatest Friend in Times of Need

Exploring Patriarchy Chapter 17 –

She could have made this a battle with her husband, but the truth is, a large part of the problem was her. And HER ATTITUDES. Because she too had, without conscious thought, embraced this disrespect.

Poem: My Greatest Friend in Times of Need

My greatest friend in times of need
I talk to you, say what I please.
You help me out when times get tough
you listen – never say you’ve had enough.

Men-OH-Pause

Exploring Patriarchy Chapter 16 –

Men-OH-Pause give your wives a break
don’t get up and leave them to wash up the plates.
They’re on their feet before every meal
cooking and washing and keeping the home clean.

MM’s Story:

She had always felt that society has a perceived value for money and things that far exceeds their actual utility, and their ability to create security and bring happiness.

Femininity ALWAYS Comes With Strings | Dr Google

Exploring Patriarchy Chapter 15 – Menopause would be the biggest struggle for MM. Because our medical system is wonderful with surgery, hormone treatment and procedures for women. But it doesn’t address the biggest health issue that women face – the lack of rest and support for women at home.

Poem: A Visit With Dr. Google

We visit the doctor once a year
when we’re not feeling too good. Just to be sure all is clear.
The doctor tells us to have some tests
but we decide to try lifestyle changes and a little rest.

After

Peaceful quiet
And time to BE and LET BE
Some togetherness and rest after a good meal.

#3LineTales

Power Games and Rape | Wake Up

Exploring Patriarchy Chapter 14 – These women were stuck deep in patriarchy and the power games it allowed them to play – the martyrdom and suffering that gave them bargaining power. Power games that can make sons who are poorly educated, or have less opportunity to find their way, feel small within their home.

Poem: Wake Up – A New Time Is Come

You’re the mother-in-law who couldn’t let go
who spoon-fed your son ‘cos you wanted control.
The daughter-in-law who kept her mouth shut
and they pushed you so low that you couldn’t get up.