A woman who writes poems is most commonly called a poet.
While the term "poetess" has historically been used to refer specifically to a female poet, it is now largely considered outdated, and most women who write poetry prefer to be called "poets."
Understanding the Terminology
The primary and most widely accepted term for anyone who writes poems, regardless of gender, is poet. This gender-neutral term reflects modern usage and the preference within the literary community.
The term poetess specifically denotes a female poet. However, as noted in linguistic sources, while "poetess" is a defined term for a female poet, the overwhelming preference among female poets themselves is to be referred to simply as "poets." This preference stems from a desire for professional equality and to avoid unnecessary gender-specific labeling in a field where skill and artistic merit are paramount.
Why "Poet" is Preferred
There are several reasons why "poet" has become the preferred term over "poetess":
- Gender Neutrality: Using "poet" for all individuals who write poetry promotes equality and removes the emphasis on gender, allowing the focus to remain on the artistic contribution.
- Professional Recognition: In many professions, gender-specific suffixes (like -ess, -trix) are being phased out as they can imply a lesser or separate status compared to the male equivalent. Opting for "poet" aligns with this movement towards professional parity.
- Literary Community Consensus: The general consensus within contemporary poetry and literary circles is to use "poet" as the standard term for all practitioners.
Comparing "Poet" and "Poetess"
| Feature | Poet | Poetess |
|---|---|---|
| Gender | Gender-neutral (male, female, non-binary) | Female only |
| Modern Usage | Preferred and widely accepted | Largely outdated and less preferred |
| Connotation | Professional, inclusive | Can be seen as diminutive or archaic |
| Focus | The art of writing poetry | The gender of the person writing poetry |
Historical Context of "Poetess"
The term "poetess" emerged during a time when gender roles were more rigidly defined, and it was common to add suffixes to denote female practitioners in various fields (e.g., authoress, sculptress). While it was once a standard term, its use has declined significantly over time. Contemporary literary discourse generally advocates for gender-neutral language when possible, especially in professional contexts, making "poet" the more respectful and accurate term.
Examples of Renowned Female Poets
Many celebrated women throughout history and in the present day have made significant contributions to poetry, and they are universally recognized as poets:
- Emily Dickinson
- Maya Angelou
- Sylvia Plath
- Mary Oliver
- Elizabeth Bishop
- Sappho
- Rupi Kaur
Key Takeaways
In summary, while "poetess" is a term that refers to a woman who writes poems, the contemporary and preferred term is poet. This reflects a broader shift towards gender-neutral language and a focus on the artistic work rather than the gender of the artist.
