Chaff of Chivalry

Women are encouraged

To remain small

Expected to be

Delicate creatures

With closed legs and disappearing waists

With voices only heard

When spoken to

And opinions only shared

When asked

With urges felt

But not explored

And sensuality seen but not encouraged

To be anything less is lacking

To be anything more

Is overbearing

Is dominating

Is too powerful

Too beautiful

For society and men

To control.

This poem was first published on Safecity.

Sreemay Rathis a writer based out of Mumbai, currently a student of Humanities in the Navy Children School, Mumbai.He has written and published a short length novel and two books of poems compiled by him. His poems have been recentlyselected for publication by Blue Rose Publishers. He received a regional award from Kartikey Sarabhai (Son of Vikram Sarabhai)for his presentation on the sustainable development of the ecosystem.