Poems About Beauty Standards: Challenging Society's Expectations

Beauty standards have long been a topic of discussion and scrutiny in our society. These expectations, often perpetuated by the media and popular culture, can have a detrimental impact on our self-esteem and mental well-being. However, poetry has always been a powerful medium to challenge these norms and redefine what beauty truly means. In this blog post, we will explore a collection of poems that eloquently examine and critique beauty standards, encouraging us to celebrate our inherent worth and uniqueness.

1. "Phenomenal Woman" by Maya Angelou

"Phenomenal Woman" is perhaps one of the most renowned poems addressing beauty standards. Maya Angelou, a prolific poet and civil rights activist, wrote this empowering piece to celebrate the beauty of women who defy societal expectations. The poem emphasizes that true beauty lies not in conforming to a particular body type or appearance but in the confidence and self-assurance that radiate from within.

Excerpt:
```
Pretty women wonder where my secret lies.
I'm not cute or built to suit a fashion model's size
But when I start to tell them,
They think I'm telling lies.
I say,
It's in the reach of my arms,
The span of my hips,
The stride of my step,
The curl of my lips.
I'm a woman
Phenomenally.
Phenomenal woman,
That's me.
```

2. "Mirror" by Sylvia Plath

In her deeply introspective poem, "Mirror," Sylvia Plath explores the idea of aging and the societal pressure to maintain a youthful appearance. The mirror in the poem serves as a metaphor for society, reflecting the harsh judgments and expectations placed upon individuals. Plath's poignant verses remind us that true beauty transcends physical appearances and that self-acceptance is essential in a world obsessed with external perfection.

Excerpt:
```
I am silver and exact. I have no preconceptions.
Whatever I see, I swallow immediately.
Just as it is, unmisted by love or dislike
I am not cruel, only truthful—
The eye of a little god, four-cornered.
Most of the time I meditate on the opposite wall.
It is pink, with speckles. I have looked at it so long
I think it is a part of my heart. But it flickers.
Faces and darkness separate us over and over.
```

3. "Barbie Doll" by Marge Piercy

Marge Piercy's "Barbie Doll" offers a scathing critique of society's obsession with unrealistic beauty standards. The poem narrates the life of a young girl who is relentlessly judged for not conforming to the idealized image of a "perfect" woman. Piercy highlights the damaging effects of societal pressure, ultimately questioning the very foundation of these beauty standards. This thought-provoking piece serves as a powerful reminder that true beauty encompasses individuality and inner strength.

Excerpt:
```
This girlchild was born as usual
and presented dolls that did pee-pee
and miniature GE stoves and irons
and wee lipsticks the color of cherry candy.
Then in the magic of puberty, a classmate said:
You have a great big nose and fat legs.
She was healthy, tested intelligent,
possessed strong arms and back,
abundant sexual drive and manual dexterity.
She went to and fro apologizing.
Everyone saw a fat nose on thick legs.
```

4. "Firework" by Rupi Kaur

Rupi Kaur's poetry often explores themes of self-love and body positivity. In her poem "Firework," Kaur encourages individuals to embrace their uniqueness and shine brightly, unapologetically. The poem is a testament to the fact that beauty should not be confined to societal standards but celebrated in all its diverse forms. Through her words, Kaur inspires us to break free from the constraints of beauty norms and ignite our inner light.

Excerpt:
```
do you know how amazing it is to be a dove
when you are surrounded by a flock of crows?
the sky is a canvas and we are all firework
painting it with our own individual light
```

These poems eloquently challenge society's beauty standards, inviting us to reflect on the harmful impact they have on our well-being. From Maya Angelou's celebration of self-assurance to Rupi Kaur's call for embracing our uniqueness, poetry offers a powerful platform to redefine beauty on our own terms. Let these poems serve as a reminder that true beauty lies in self-acceptance, confidence, and the celebration of our individuality.