Matryoshka

: Poems on the complexity of women

Abstract

As an original, contemporary poetry collection Matryoshka effectively represents women and their complexity. The accompanying exegesis provides context to the origins of the collection and examines my creative process, discussing the distinctiveness of the collection throughout. The project in its entirety offers an individual, creative and critical input into discussions around diversity, agency and choice. I began the project by asking three questions: To what extent can I
represent the complex woman figure? What does this complexity mean? Why have I chosen to present women this way? Firstly, I can only offer a representation and interpretation of women and their complexity. Secondly, the notion of complexity refers to the vast spectrum of individual attitudes, intentions and behaviours women can exhibit. This representation of complexity challenges the limitations placed on individuality, agency and accountability as a result of both
patriarchy and popular culture, feminist ideals. Finally, the presentation of women in Matryoshka was largely driven by personal experience, observation and perspective.

Date of Award	25 May 2022
Original language	English
Supervisor	Stephen Ely (Co-Supervisor) & James Underwood (Co-Supervisor)