I have here in my hands a wonderful book called “A Miscellany of Women’s Wisdom” compiled by Jane Lyle (Running Press, Philadelphia copyright 1993 by Inklink). I’d like to just quote a couple of things from it, and if the publishers ever want me to take this down then by all means just let me know.
This book is filled with many gems – some I approve of heartily, some I really disagree with, but it’s a very entertaining read in any case.
“I’ve dreamt in my life dreams that have stayed with me ever after, and changed my ideas; they’ve gone through and through me, like wine through water, and altered the colour of my mind.” (Emily Bronte 1818-1848)
Here’s a stirring song sung by the women chain-makers of Cradley Heath, England, when they went on strike in 1910 to win a better life for themselves:
Rouse, ye women, long enduring / Beat no iron, blow no bellows / Till ye win the fight, ensuring / Pay that is your due.
Chorus: Through years uncomplaining, / Hope and strength are waning, / Your industry / A begar’s fee, / And meagre fare was gaining. / Now a Trade Board is created, / See your pain and dearth abated, / And the Sweater’s wiles checkmated / Parliament’s decree!
Rouse, ye women, rouse, around you / Towns and cities cry, “God speed you,” / Rouse, shake off the fears that bound you / Women, rouse. Be true.
At length the light is breaking, / the Sweater’s throne is shaking, / Oh, do your part, / With all your heart, / A sweeter world in making! / Stand together, strong and splendid, / In your Union till you’ve ended / Tyranny, and with toll blended / Beauty, Joy and Art.
“It is better to die on your feet than to live on your knees.” (Dolores Ibarruri, known as La Pasionara 1895-1989)
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