6.8 “Peso ancestral” – Alfonsina Storni

Background on Alfonsina Storni

Overview of “Peso ancestral”

Themes and Motifs

1. Feminism and gender roles: The poem addresses the constraints and expectations placed on women in society, and advocates for their freedom and independence.
2. Burden of tradition: The "ancestral weight" referred to in the title is a metaphor for the societal norms and traditions that the speaker feels suffocated by.
3. The longing for freedom: The speaker yearns to escape the constraints of society and live a life free from the expectations placed on her.

1. Metaphors: The use of the "ancestral weight" and other powerful imagery serve to illustrate the themes and emotions of the poem.
2. Nature: The use of nature as a symbol for freedom and liberation is a recurring motif in the poem.
3. Women's experiences: Storni's work often explores the experiences of women and the challenges they face, and "Peso ancestral" is no exception. The poem provides a voice to the experiences and feelings of women in a patriarchal society.

Literary Devices and Techniques

1. Metaphor: The "ancestral weight" is a powerful metaphor for the societal expectations and norms that the speaker feels suffocated by.
2. Personification: The weight of tradition is personified as a heavy, oppressive force that the speaker struggles against.
3. Repetition: The repetition of phrases such as "me ahoga" (it suffocates me) helps to reinforce the speaker's feelings of oppression and longing for freedom.
4. Symbolism: Nature is used as a symbol for freedom and liberation, and serves as a powerful image for the speaker's yearning to escape the constraints of society.
5. Free verse: The poem is written in free verse, which allows for more freedom in the structure and rhythm of the poem and adds to its emotional impact.

Analysis of Key Passages

Impacts of the Text

1. Feminist statement: The poem is widely considered a feminist statement, challenging patriarchal norms and advocating for women's freedom and independence.
2. Literary significance: The poem is considered a classic of Latin American literature and is widely studied and analyzed by scholars of the genre.
3. Cultural impact: The poem has had a significant impact on Argentine culture and has become a part of the country's literary heritage.
4. Inspiration for other writers: Storni's work, including "Peso ancestral," has been an inspiration for many other writers, particularly those exploring feminist themes.
5. Legacy: The poem continues to be widely read and appreciated, and Alfonsina Storni remains a highly regarded and influential figure in Latin American literature.