The poem “I Was My Own Route” by Julia de Burgos is a powerful exploration of gender discrimination and the struggle for women’s liberation in the face of patriarchal norms. Burgos, a radical feminist, challenges the traditional paths imposed on women by a masculine-dominated society, emphasizing the importance of women’s freedom and independence.
Through the speaker in the poem, Burgos exposes the oppressive nature of male mentality, which often defines a woman’s existence based on outdated gender roles and prejudices. The speaker rejects this notion and seeks a new path, one that she can choose for herself, free from male influence and societal expectations.
The poem’s structure, with six distinct stanzas, reflects the speaker’s journey towards self-discovery and empowerment. She moves away from the constraints of patriarchal ideologies, symbolized as “the desperate flapping wings of the old guard,” and embraces a newfound sense of liberation and happiness on her chosen route.
Burgos’s message resonates strongly as she advocates for women’s rights, equality, and the freedom to chart their own destinies. The poem serves as a reminder that both men and women are essential members of society, deserving of equal opportunities, freedoms, and the right to pursue their individual paths without patriarchal constraints.
