Listen to Carmel recite her poem on ABC Radio, Mornings with Jon Faine, 11 July 2018 When I say I am afraid of men who mean me harm, You tell me not to make a fuss, there’s no need for alarm; That not all men are like that, not to stress my pretty head Or talk about those other men; just look at you instead. But what of women suffering, a slap, a punch, a shove, A life of menacing oppression from a man they love. Not all men are sexist, not all men disrespect Not all men are the man who harms what he should protect Not all men are vicious, not all men are brutes Not all men are the man who punches, rapes and shoots. Not all men use violence, most are courteous and kind But when I talk of toxic men the others feel maligned. So I ask you to consider when you jump in to defend How did speaking up for women become slandering of men? Why is it when I voice my fears you first defend your brothers Instead of listening to your sisters, mothers or your lovers? I need you to hear my voice and listen to my fears But you keep on shouting louder and my voice just disappears. Not all men will listen, not all men understand You tell me you are ‘not all men’, a verbal sleight of hand. I can look at you and love you, and yet still be afraid While so much deadly violence still seems to be man-made Do not usurp my story, don’t tell me what to do, This is not about all men, don’t make it about you. Carmel O’Brien
Laura
1/7/2018 03:37:11 pm
Perfectly on point 👌
Virginia Ward
8/7/2018 10:37:22 am
Beautiful, Great poem!. 💚
Carolyn Burns
11/7/2018 10:10:40 am
I heard this amazing Woman on radio 774 this morning. The poem literally stopped me in my tracks! Thanks Carmel for putting into words so eloquently what many Women are thinking & experiencing.
Belinda
12/7/2018 07:04:31 pm
This poem stopped me in my tracks and left me breathless with emotion when I first heard it. I’ve found it hard to put this position into words but you’ve captured it beautifully. Really leaves one pausing for thought, well done!
Vivian
14/7/2018 10:20:02 am
What a Powerful Poem! Comments are closed.
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AuthorOriginal and individual reflections by Carmel O’Brien. Learn, laugh, enjoy. Categories
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