Buddha’s Wife – Summary (By Ruth Silcock Pearson)
The poem “Buddha’s Wife” by Ruth Silcock Pearson, taken from Poems in Our Pocket, highlights the struggles and sacrifices of famous men’s wives—such as Buddha’s wife, Mahatma Gandhi’s wife, Christian women, and the milkmaids of Krishna’s time. The poet does not mock these women but instead shows sympathy for their silent suffering and limited freedom.
Stanza 1 – Buddha’s Wife
Buddha left his palace at midnight in search of enlightenment, abandoning his wife forever. The poet imagines how lonely and difficult her life must have been. She feels that Buddha’s perfection came at the cost of his wife’s happiness, making her an unacknowledged contributor to his greatness.
Stanza 2 – Gandhi’s Wife (Kasturba)
Gandhi, a saintly leader who freed India from British rule, also neglected his wife. Kasturba suffered from pneumonia, but Gandhi refused foreign medicine, relying instead on traditional remedies and water from the Ganges. She died without proper care, showing how personal sacrifices were often ignored in the shadow of great men’s missions.
Stanza 3 – Christian Women
Christian women, according to the poet, also lack freedom. They must obey their husbands and follow strict church rules—like covering their hair with scarves or hats. The poet criticizes St. Paul and other priests for denying women liberty and keeping them under control in the name of religion.
Stanza 4 – Krishna and the Milkmaids
The poet recalls the ancient tales of Krishna, who teased and promised to meet the milkmaids but often disappointed them. She also points out how in religious stories, men like Adam are shown as wise, while women like Eve are portrayed as weak and easily deceived.
Central Message
The poem reflects on how history and religion have treated women as inferior, restricting them to household roles while men enjoyed freedom, respect, and opportunities. The poet calls for equality, respect, and recognition for women’s sacrifices.