American Dream (for the ladies)

You’re a woman in America, we have a formula for the way to live your lifeDare to stray from our path and you may be punishedIt’s a good life, what we’ve decided for youThere isn’t much chance for you to change it

But we’ll give you the illusion of choice

When you’re small, we’ll tell you all the things you can and can’t do

You can wear dresses, but not too short

You can’t do math or science

You can talk, but not too much

You can’t be too friendly

When you’re a teen, we’ll tell you all the things you can and can’t be

You can be curious, but not ask too many questions

You can’t show your shoulders

Your legs

Your stomach, back, collarbones

You can show that smile, though

Why won’t you just give us a smile, girl?

You can’t be alone at night

When you’re an adult, we’ll tell you all the things you can and can’t feel

You can feel sad about the life you thought you’d have

But you can’t feel angry at us, for what we’ve done to you

Can’t feel rage at the limitations we’ve set for you

You can feel the slap of our hands on your ass

The pinch of our fingers up your skirt

But you can’t feel angry at us, for the harm we’ve done to you

Can’t feel rage at the times you’ve been raped

You can feel the ache of longing for freedom

But you can’t stand up and shout

Keep your voice down

Keep your eyes closed

Keep your legs shut

Woman