description Her Kind Overview
Anne Sexton's 1960 confessional poem from her debut collection, in which the speaker identifies with witches and outcasts to explore female transgression and social nonconformity.
help Her Kind FAQ
What collection contains Anne Sexton's 'Her Kind'?
The poem appeared in Sexton's debut collection 'To Bedlam and Part Way Back,' published in 1960. It was the opening poem of the book and became one of her signature pieces, frequently read at her live performances.
What personas does the speaker adopt in 'Her Kind'?
Across three stanzas, the speaker identifies as a witch, a lonely housewife, and a condemned outcast. Each section ends with the refrain 'I have been her kind,' binding the speaker to these marginalized female figures.
Was Anne Sexton associated with confessional poetry?
Yes, Sexton is regarded as a foundational figure of the confessional school, alongside Sylvia Plath and Robert Lowell. She began writing poetry on the advice of her therapist and frequently explored mental illness, sexuality, and personal trauma in her work.
Did Anne Sexton perform 'Her Kind' publicly?
Sexton was known for dramatic public readings of the poem, often accompanied by a band, and she recorded 'Her Kind' for the album 'The World of Anne Sexton' in the late 1960s. Her performances blurred the line between poetry reading and theatrical event.
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