An Introduction

Indian writing in English, as a genre, is characterised with a multiplicity and variety when it comes to themes and modes of representation. Kamala Das is one of the many distinguished voices of the subcontinent, known for her impassioned responses against oppression and subjugation of woman in the Indian context. Her poem “An Introduction” is an appropriate introduction to her poetic identity and helps the readers to understand Kamala Das as a poet of singular merit.

Politics as Domain of Men

The poem is titled “An Introduction”, which means a formal presentation of oneself. The poem is a detailed account of Kamala Das’ life and her conflicts starting from her childhood and early adolescence. She begins the poem with a reference to politics, as a domain beyond her knowledge and expertise.