Molly CrawfordAE 101August 8, 2015

EkphrasisWhen I first looked, I saw a screen creating the separation of black and white,Men to the right in white, women to the left in black.A pattern of people, of bodies,Focused on a point ahead of the crowd. The artist, Shirin Neshat, explained that the speaker at this event was,“Delivering a moral speech about the subject of sin – Sin that arises from desire, temptation for the opposite sex.” There is no stronger image of the separation and designation ofMen from women in this world,And there is no more controversial subject than Sex. I am drawn to the single face that stands out,A pale complexion contrasting the black chadors of her fellow females. It’s almost like she’s defying the gender roles and stereotypes of the world.It’s hard to go through this world as a woman, But half of us won’t understand that struggle, Because half of us are men. I’ve been catcalled, sexually harassed and assaulted,As many of my fellow women have. It’s a touchy subject, butThis picture reminds me that I’m not alone, And that our struggle is real, and not some made up bullshit because “You’re probably on your period,” or “Your hormones are making you overemotional.”It reminds me to be strong and to stand up for what I believe,To go against the grain if it’s for the betterment of myself, and others like me. This picture doesn’t just have to be about feminism;This picture could simply be aboutRespect, empowerment, individuality, orHope.

Shirin Neshat: Fervor