"Joyas Voladoras" and "Barbie Doll"

Introduction

In literature, the exploration of vulnerability and identity often serves as a mirror to societal norms and personal struggles. "Joyas Voladoras" by Brian Doyle and "Barbie Doll" by Marge Piercy are two poignant pieces that delve deep into these themes. Through Doyle’s introspective examination of the fleeting yet profound existence of a hummingbird and Piercy’s critique of societal expectations imposed on women, both works underscore the fragility of life and the constructed nature of identity. This essay aims to elucidate how Doyle and Piercy navigate these complex themes, ultimately revealing the universal human condition marked by both our innate vulnerabilities and the identities we strive to construct.

Body Paragraph

Brian Doyle’s "Joyas Voladoras" is a masterful contemplation on the brevity of life and the inherent vulnerability that accompanies it. Doyle uses the hummingbird as a metaphorical device to illustrate the intensity and transience of existence. The hummingbird, with its rapid heartbeat and ephemeral life span, epitomizes a life lived in the extreme. Doyle writes, “A hummingbird's heart is a lot of the hummingbird. Joyas voladoras, flying jewels, the first white explorers in the Americas called them, and the white men had never seen such creatures, for hummingbirds came into the world only in the Americas” (Doyle). This vivid imagery not only captures the reader’s imagination but also serves as a stark reminder of life’s impermanence. Doyle’s narrative extends beyond the hummingbird, suggesting that all hearts, regardless of species, are bound by the same fragility. By connecting this vulnerability to a universal biological function, Doyle subtly underscores the shared experience of all living beings, thus fostering a sense of empathy and interconnectedness.

In contrast, Marge Piercy’s "Barbie Doll" offers a critical examination of societal constructs and their impact on individual identity, particularly that of women. The poem follows a young girl who is subjected to societal pressures to conform to idealized standards of beauty. Piercy’s use of the Barbie doll, an iconic symbol of unrealistic physical perfection, serves as a poignant critique of these societal norms. The poem begins with a seemingly innocent childhood, “This girlchild was born as usual and presented dolls that did pee-pee / and miniature GE stoves and irons / and wee lipsticks the color of cherry candy” (Piercy). However, as the poem progresses, the girl is harshly judged and criticized for her physical appearance, leading to a tragic conclusion. Piercy’s stark language and imagery reveal the damaging effects of societal expectations, ultimately questioning the value placed on superficial attributes over intrinsic qualities. Through the juxtaposition of the girl’s natural self and the artificial standards embodied by the Barbie doll, Piercy poignantly exposes the destructive nature of conforming to societal ideals.

Despite their differing approaches, both Doyle and Piercy highlight a common theme: the struggle between authentic existence and imposed identities. Doyle’s exploration of the hummingbird’s life serves as a metaphor for the beauty and pain of living authentically, regardless of the brevity it entails. The hummingbird lives intensely, its vulnerability a testament to its genuine existence. In contrast, Piercy’s girlchild is forced to navigate a world that prioritizes artificial standards over authentic self-expression. The tragic outcome of "Barbie Doll" underscores the devastating consequences of succumbing to societal pressures, ultimately losing one’s true identity. Both works evoke a sense of empathy and reflection, urging readers to consider the cost of conforming to external expectations at the expense of one’s authentic self.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Brian Doyle’s "Joyas Voladoras" and Marge Piercy’s "Barbie Doll" offer profound insights into the themes of vulnerability and identity. Doyle’s narrative invites readers to reflect on the beauty and impermanence of life, emphasizing our shared vulnerabilities. Piercy’s poem critiques societal norms that dictate unrealistic standards of beauty, highlighting the destructive impact on individual identity. Together, these works compel readers to question the value of authenticity versus conformity, ultimately advocating for a deeper understanding and acceptance of our intrinsic selves. Through their compelling narratives and vivid imagery, Doyle and Piercy remind us of the inherent worth of living authentically, despite the vulnerabilities it may entail.