Rape Me American Summary

This poem is a representation of oppressed women. When reading this poem, there is an abundance of detail and it captures the attention of the reader. Jordan managed to used imagery and descriptive language to get this powerful message across. Jordan uses diction to emphasize harsh circumstances that women face everyday and animosity towards the little political action against rape. Jordan speaks about rape in France, and how the law states, “if the guy penetrates but does not ejaculate then he did not rape me.” This is a excuse for offenders that makes women feel helpless because they can not go to the police if a man did not ejaculate. The police will question what the woman was wearing or how she was acting to make it seem like she had it coming. This law leaves the victim susceptible to more abuse from the offender.This is proof that the justice and government system is unjust and corrupt. The poem also shows that racism is prevalent, the text states, “we are the wrong people of the wrong skin on the wrong continent.” The line shows how African Americans were uncomfortable in their own skin. You were judged by the color of your skin and it affected your wealth and authority. There are still stereotypical views on appearance shown here: “I should have been lighter
The pain she portrays in the poem is that similar to the pain felt by Native Americans. This portrayal of pain happens on the poem when she blames herself for the disappointment that she caused society. Jordan talks about how both of her parents wished she was different, so she could have an easier life and not be judged so harshly by society. However the poem ends in an optimistic and unexpected way, with Jordan saying that she will happily defend who she is and this leaves the reader feeling