Yashmak Of Learning Poem by Allison Riches

Yashmak of Learning

A forbidden sexuality
A forbidden thought
A vessel of loyalty
For dowries we're bought;

Our society is very close knit and caring;
Unless taught and controlled, thus conforming;
As women we are not allowed expression
A life in the west makes us feel daily suppression.

I embrace the rules as it provides security
An upbringing creating barriers to promiscuity;
I see the problems that freedom can bring
As rules cannot be enforced by human beings;

Its belief in a God, be it yours or mine;
That can help control unlicensed thoughts of the mind;
Lost extended families clearly the demise of the West;
If people can't respect their own blood how can it bring out their best?

I say 'their best' as I mean chosen statements,
This conformist action illustrated is due to serious thought;
Such a strict extended society can be threatening
As a woman to risk all, its a personal statement no one bought.

The line between family culture and religion
Can be invisible at times, or at least to me;
Especially Western education highlights the division;
We are taught the socialist/ fascist English way to be.

Then return each night to our real world
And as a student of my age confirm in two areas;
Due to family loyalty, I fear my culture's rejection
Yet fear failure in education, which is hilarious.

I am trapped between dictated goals
Neither of which are mine;
My future of domineering beholds
An innocent woman never to cross another person's line.

What good is knowledge of freedom
but I'm not permitted to use it
Does it take suffering
To understand, but can't abuse it?

Why educate and entice
Political ornaments of no use;
Does it take knowledge
To recognise your personal abuse?

Allison Riches, copyright 2007