Developing Personal Identity

Throughout this poem, the protagonist struggles with her self-perception and self-worth. There is a sense at the start of the poem that Medusa doesn’t quite know who she is or what her place in the world will be. She learns about poetry throughout history from her serpentine friends, in the way that many young women become avaricious for knowledge when exploring who they might become. However, her partner interjects himself into this journey, demanding to be prioritised; because Medusa hasn’t yet developed a strong sense of self-worth, she follows his guidance.

When Medusa gives up her most distinctive feature — the iconic motif that makes her who she is — her first instinct is justification. She tells herself that she’ll look like Audrey Hepburn, and most importantly, she’ll be doing her part to strengthen her relationship. When her efforts fall apart, Medusa...