Dear Eavan Boland,

            Your poem was really interesting and I believe it had to do with more than just how society views women. It could be viewed as how society has seen minority groups such as; Mexicans, African Americans, Arabic’s, etc. Your poem I believe relates to the fact that people are contemplated as equals but yet, society still sets boundaries on how far you can go (or stereotypes). An example would be, Mexicans, an equal to everyone else in society but, to society if one happens to make it, it is seen as wrong.

            Being recognized as a not only as male (who is not supposed to excel in the classroom), but a Hispanic male I was not expected to make it into a university. In society’s point of view I was to barely graduate from high school and possibly make it into community college. Well I defied that stereotype. I graduated from high school with honors and I was accepted into 3 Cal state’s, and 2 UC’s. Another way I can relate to what your poem illustrates towards views on women and society as a whole. I am a Hispanic male attending the California state university of Northridge. When I was in high school I was part of the football team but at the same time taking advance placement courses. The first day I stepped into class the teacher said, “a football player huh, we will see how long you last in here.” I would later go on to receive a B in the course. My teacher didn’t believe I would last just because I was a football player, I was distinguished as a “dumb jock” or someone who has schoolwork done for them. I however earn everything I receive and strive for excellence.

            Your poem I can argue had more meaning than just women not taking risks and going further than what is expected in society. I could relate to what you illustrate in “It’s a Woman’s World.” I enjoyed reading your poem very much it was really intriguing.

Sincerely,

Alberto Garcia-Figueroa