If the "Girl" was a boy, this prose poem probably wouldn't have been written at all. This text lists all the prescriptions that a young woman must follow in order to fit into a patriarchal, rigid, sexist and racist society. And they come from her own mother, who means her well. The mother scolds her probably because of her free spirit, which doesn't accept oppression. Many of these recommendations and naggings pertain to domestic chores (laundry, cooking, eating, ironing and sewing clothes) and public appearance (being modest, not drawing male attention, not acting like a sl.ut). Those are exclusive spheres of female activity, and a young woman must follow the rules if she wants to be a respected member of the society. A boy wouldn't have nearly as many rules to follow. After all, rebellion is expected from boys, as well as a nonconformist attitude that makes them men.
