Audre Lorde, being a black, lesbian poet, has somehow found a way to overcome all obstacles that society has put in her way in order to vocalize her thoughts, opinions, and just about anything else that is on her mind – something that most women in her shoes, unfortunately, have not yet mastered. This is not to blame those women who do feel their voices are being constricted. Rather, it is to commend Audre Lorde on setting an example for women to follow, as well as acting as a role model for millions.

As Lorde explains her work “The Transformation of Silence into Action,” she felt she only recognized the true potential and power of her voice when she realized there would come a day she would no longer be able to utilize it She also made mention of how this realization came a lot later on in her life, which I understood completely. Many of us do not even have the luxury of finding our own voices, let alone finding in in our adulthood. It is precisely for this reason why I was taken back when I read of a young girl who was not afraid to take control of her life, and fight for what she believed in. When Jane stood up for herself while her aunt was acting vile towards her, I was surprised at how Jane was able to handle such an intense situation in a manner that would have the maximum amount of affect. There are many things that make Jane’s reaction to her aunt significant: her age, her past, the time period, and being a young girl. All of these factors make her stance that much more amazing, because she was able to take control of a situation, and vocalize her thoughts and opinions – something that many people would think would be quiet impossible to do for a girl in her situation. Yet, Jane was able to do it effortlessly, while continuing to use her voice as the story progresses.

This goes to emphasize one of Audre Lorde’s main points – women, no matter age, ethnicity, or situation – should be able to take back control of their voice, so that they may escape the prison they have put themselves in.