Alfonsina Storni was a poet and playwright who made a lasting impression on Latin American literature in the early 20th century. Born on this day May 29, 1892 in Sala Capriasca, Switzerland and raised in Argentina, Storni broke through the confines of traditional gender roles to become a leading voice in the literary world. Her works, which often explored themes of love, feminism, and social injustice, were hailed for their boldness and originality. Today, Storni is remembered as a trailblazer who paved the way for future generations of women writers.
Storni’s Writing Style and Themes
Storni’s writing style was characterized by its simplicity, clarity, and directness. She used language that was accessible to all readers and avoided complex literary devices and obscure references. Her works were also notable for their focus on everyday life and experiences that were relatable to many people.
Storni’s poetry often explored themes of love, feminism, and social injustice. She wrote about the struggles of women in a patriarchal society and advocated for their rights and equality. Her poems were often deeply personal and reflected her own experiences and emotions.
Major Works by Storni
Storni’s works include poetry, plays, and essays. Some of her most famous works include Languidez, Ocre, and Mundo de siete pozos. Languidez is a collection of poems that explore themes of love, loss, and femininity. Ocre is a poetry collection that examines the relationship between two women and the challenges they face in a patriarchal society. Mundo de siete pozos is a collection that address a range of social and political issues, including women’s rights, education, and class inequality.
Storni’s works are notable for their exploration of feminist themes and their use of simple, conversational language. Her works continue to be studied and admired for their originality, clarity, and power.
Storni’s Legacy and Recognition
Storni’s legacy is one of courage, creativity, and determination. She was a trailblazer for women writers and a champion of feminist ideals. Her works continue to inspire and influence people around the world, and her contributions to literature and feminism have been recognized and celebrated in many ways.
In 1935, Storni was diagnosed with breast cancer and received a mastectomy; after it reappeared in 1938, she died by suicide . Her death was a great loss to the literary world, but her legacy continues to live on. Today, Storni is recognized as one of the most important and influential writers in Latin American literature, and her contributions to feminism and women’s rights continue to be celebrated and studied.
I Am Going to Sleep
Teeth of flowers, hairnet of dew,
hands of herbs, you, perfect wet nurse,
prepare the earthly sheets for me
and the down quilt of weeded moss.
I am going to sleep, my nurse, put me to bed.
Set a lamp at my headboard;
a constellation; whatever you like;
all are good: lower it a bit.
Leave me alone: you hear the buds breaking through . . .
a celestial foot rocks you from above
and a bird traces a pattern for you
so you’ll forget . . . Thank you. Oh, one request:
if he telephones again
tell him not to keep trying for I have left . . .
-Alfonsina Storni
