'It makes me feel really sad for young readers, because at the end of the day, young readers are the ones who are suffering,' Kaur told CBC News. It is also, now, among the many books that have been targeted by conservative parent groups for dealing with themes of race, gender and sexuality. Her collection of poems, milk and honey, which received widespread acclaim upon its release in 2014, is partly inspired by her experience with sexual assault and gender-based violence. She believes prettifying the face alone means women agree to be objectified by the patriarchy and we are definitely more than that.Upon hearing that her debut book of poetry was under fire in Texas, Rupi Kaur's initial reaction was sorrow. She encourages women out there to care more on how they prettify their souls and brains with experiences and knowledge rather than focusing solely on their faces. But a pretty face without a pretty soul will result to nothing… right? Being pretty is physical and it’s something that you’re born with. Through this poem, a powerful message is sent to all women that we should be proud to be called brave or smart rather than just pretty. Rupi thinks women should be free being whoever they choose to be inside and outside, having no need to follow any rules that the society have created for them. This self-consciousness is not about the physical appearance but more about the inner self.

Her main highlight is that women can be vulnerable, self-conscious and empowered at the same time. Most of her poems are about a woman struggling with her history of abuse and manage to come out of it stronger and more in-tune with herself. Her powerful depiction of the women of color’s strength and resilience delivers a positive message in an unapologetic and empowering manner. Because the poetry itself is raw and emotional, readers can easily associate their experiences with what she writes.

Rupi Kaur’s poetry is simple yet vibrant with truth. Milk and Honey is divided into four sections – the Hurting, the Loving, the Breaking and the Healing, that focuses on love, loss, violence, abuse, and femininity.

The name of this book captures much of what to expect from the rest of the book. They seethe from her human lips but their existence within her is not because of a mutual kindness but due to wickedness brought upon her. “Milk and honey dripping from the lips” are the embodiment of sustenance and nourishment. This book is passionately dedicated to the women’s empowerment movement. She has since written a book of poems entitled Milk and Honey, which has now become one of New York Times best-sellers. She has gained recognition during the past few years for her feminist short poems.

Rupi Kaur: Milk and Honey by Yael Engineta

03 Students & Alumni / 03 Students & Alumni / Students' Portfolio.

Rupi kaur milk and honey poems