Every Good Woman - An Ode to Feminine Existentialism

 Digital artwork (AI Assisted) by C. Sexton 

I wrote this poem as somewhat of an ode to women who have been victims of narcissistic and sexual abuse. It follows a speaker shaped by repeated emotional, physical, and psychological harm as she questions what it means to be a “good woman.”

Measured against society’s expectations of womanhood, motherhood, sexuality, faith, and work, she finds herself unable ,or unwilling, to conform. Her tone is detached and matter-of-fact, reflecting a quiet resignation.

Yet beneath that detachment is a deeper longing: to exist beyond those imposed roles. Her desire to be “free… just me” contrasts with the voice of “everybody,” revealing the tension between societal expectations and her true self.

Every Good Woman 

Everybody say, every good woman knows how to cook 

But I don’t... 

I burn my water and grease my hands 

And my foot is missing a few toes.  

Just depends on whose mouth is around... 

Everybody say, every good woman knows how to be a momma 

Well I don’t...

My mama was there and almost swallowed me up 

I swallowed mine before they had the time to give up. 

Leaving imaginary tears behind...

Everybody say, every good woman knows how to please her man 

Well I don’t... 

It’s hard for a 5-year-old to understand 

When they’re told to lend a helping hand.

Everybody say, every good woman knows how to serve the Lord 

Well I don’t...

I curse, I doubt and I hate... to wait because sometimes I don’t think 

I’m all that great 

So I’ve been told...

Everybody say, every good woman know how to work hard 

Well I don’t ...

Because I just don’t want to.  

Sometimes I just want to be  

Want to be free 

Free to be  

Just me 

not Everybody 

You see?