Carol Ann Duffy writes in a way that is from the outside looking into society. It is not quite a commentary on society, but more an observation of how it is. She doesn’t act on the world around her, but rather writes down her impressions and thoughts. She writes about the little people; the poor and the rejects. The ones that are considered not in the norm. This is interesting because Carol was a bisexual and even with progression as a society, is still considered a choice made by “outsiders.” This gives her a unique perspective in the world lesser known by the minorities.  It is interesting to read about what she knows. She writes about inequality, gender roles, and sexuality. While some of her poems might hint to her life, it is unclear if her life was her muse or commentaries on the lives of others.

I wonder what Carol Ann Duffy’s reasoning was for naming her book “Standing Female Nude”. It is particularly noticeable especially on a conservative campus like BYU. The title itself draws attention to the book.

Maybe it was because the acts of sharing her thoughts and opinions is compared to standing naked in front of others. Maybe it is because her book is about the objectifying of women like her title is.  Maybe it is about standing up for women in whatever form or shape they may be.

I believe Carol Ann Duffy is taking a stand for women and equality through the way she knows best, her poetry.

Image source: http://www.carolannduffy.co.uk/