Madam Manh Manh – a writer/ journalist on her journey standing up for justices and eliminating prejudices for women of her time – raised her voice in fervent support of women’s rights: "Innovative women are the new ones who follow social trends and the contemporary civilized era" and she "stood alongside men, seeking equal value as human beings in society". Through every page of her books and her resolute words, she not only portrayed the essence of women's souls but also played a significant role in raising social awareness about the women's rights movement, gender equality, and the eradication of long-held prejudices imposed upon women throughout generations. So, what compelled a petite woman to step forward and assertively fight for such causes?
SO HUMANITARIAN A WOMEN’S RIGHTS JOURNEY
Nguyen Thi Manh Manh was born in 1914 to an intellectual Hanoi’s household. From early ages, she was encouraged by her family to read books and engage in writing, which shaped her passion for literature and journalism. She attended a prestigious Vietnamese-French school, where she had exposure to a wide range of foreign literary works, which greatly influenced her way of thinking and writing later on.
In 1930, Nguyen Thi Manh Manh commenced her career in journalism. She worked for various prominent newspapers and magazines, such as "Phong Hoa", "Ngay Nay", and "Phu Nu Tan Van". Her published articles not only focused on current affairs and social issues but also displayed a particular concern for the situation and rights of women. This can be particularly seen through her frequent criticisms of social injustices, calls for reform, and efforts to raise awareness about the role of women in both family and society. In 1931-1932, she earned her Teaching Certificate in Education, allowing her to pursue her passion for teaching while remaining actively involved in social activism and journalism. Nguyen Thi Manh Manh's literary contributions graced the pages of publications such as "Phu Nu Tan Van", "Cong Luan", and "Nu Luu", amplifying her voice for women's rights and progressive change. During this time, she boldly expressed her views and unwavering support for the “New Poetry” movement led by esteemed poets such as Phan Khoi, The Lu, and Luu Trong Lu. This not only showcased her modernity and avant-garde thinking but also underscored her commitment to advancing the women's rights movement in Vietnam during the early 20th century. Not stopping there, she traveled to Quy Nhon, Da Nang, Hue, Hai Phong, and Hanoi, delivering fervent speeches and advocating for literary and social reforms, particularly emphasizing women's rights. These public speeches attracted large audiences and received enthusiastic support. They were even acknowledged by Hoai Thanh - Hoai Chan in "Vietnamese Poets": "...Association of Encouraged Learning had been established for 25 years, and for the first time, a young woman took the stage, and for the first time, there was such a well-attended speech."
During this period, Nguyen Thi Manh Manh wrote a wealth of articles and essays calling for the improvement of women’s rights and status. She organized and participated in many discussions and seminars on women’s rights, where she delivered speeches and inspired many other women. The female scholar’s allure emanated from her provocative topics, bold way of speaking, intellectual and dignified style, and her rare understanding of culture as a “young person.” She held the belief that education and raising awareness were the main paths for women to escape the constraints of feudal society and rise up. In a talk at a Women’s Fair on May 25, 1932, held at the Tao Dan garden, she said: “ For people like us who, while lacking knowledge, seek wisdom; and who, though uneducated, yearn for understanding; and who, despite unfamiliarity with art and literature, wholeheartedly appreciate them, then the Women’s Study Association is truly invaluable." She always emphasized the significance of education for women. No longer were they unassuming figures in the background; now was the era for them to step into the light, find their own ideals, and no longer succumb to outdated feudal standards. Like a blazing torch enlightening the path, she gradually disseminated and led the way, so that everyone would know, everyone would understand, and everyone would participate.
IDEALS ELEVATED THROUGH EVERY SPEECH, EVERY POEM
Apart from journalism, Nguyen Thi Manh Manh was also a talented writer. She authored numerous literary works, among which novels and short stories stood out, highlighting the role and power of women. Some notable works include "The Mirror of Women," a novel depicting the life and struggles of a young woman overcoming difficulties and social prejudices, and "The New Women," a collection of short stories honoring modern, strong, and independent women. Dr. Phan Van Hoang wrote: “"She attacked detrimental customs such as male superiority, arranged marriages, and polygamy while advocating for the rightful rights of women. In 1934, she traveled to four cities (Hue, Hanoi, Nam Dinh, and Hai Phong) to deliver speeches on topics such as 'Public Perception of Progressive Women,' 'A Day in the Life of an Enlightened Woman,' 'Should Marriage be Free?' and 'Should Polygamy be Abolished?' Her ideas sparked opposing opinions in society, reflected through the press in both the North and South."She posed thought-provoking questions, embodying humanistic ideals and offering insights into women's thoughts. In that era, few dared to do what she did, to stand up for their rights, to fight against social injustices. Nguyen Thi Manh Manh stood up, and she was a pioneer. Thus, we can see how deeply she pondered and contemplated the fate of women. Her modern ideas and courageous voice compelled society at that time to pay attention to that very topic - women's rights and the pursuit of equality in society. According to Dr. Bui Tran Phuong, ultimately, if we want the current struggle for gender equality in Vietnam to become a meaningful wave, we must genuinely understand what women's rights truly mean. Furthermore, we must critically examine the labels we attach to women and question their validity. One notable label is "the virtue of appearance and speech." She quotes:
“Diligence, the fragrance of cooked rice, the taste of cakes,
Duty, the needle that stitches, surpassing a thimble's domain.
Appearance, the dignified visage of a precious gem,
Never excessively ardent nor subserviently submissive.
Wordings, the humble tutor imparting wisdom,
Virtue, the path paved with honesty and trust.
Virtuous brides from the past to the present
Appearance, diligence, wordings,virtue, the compass of worldly norms."
(Gia huấn ca – Nguyễn Trãi)
"These words are served so that we may understand whether they are worth preserving or not, rather than lamenting their loss," she concluded.
Thus, her entire life of ideals and the tumultuous journey of her career were devoted to raising her voice for gender equality in the country and challenging the prevailing injustices in society. Why should such an extraordinary individual be consigned to oblivion?
A LIFE INTERWOVEN WITH THE FEMINIST AND NEW POETRY MOVEMENT
Nguyen Thi Kiem belonged to the pioneering generation of women who were among the first to fully embrace Western-style education. She was a student at the first institution for women in the country - Ao Tim School. The Feminist movement is vividly portrayed through the life and career of a woman, bringing history to life in a very specific, lively, and emotional manner. In her speech titled “Public Opinion of Men Regarding Progressive Women”, delivered in Hue on the night of May 3, 1934, she articulated: “Feminism involves emancipating women from obsolete customs, advocating for their rights, discovering avenues for our sisters to sustain themselves, find ways for them to earn a living in order to lead more fulfilling lives, and elevating their intellectual standards.” Manh Manh the poetess initiated a remarkably dynamic and innovative feminist movement during her time. Besides championing the New Poetry movement, she traveled extensively to advocate for gender equality, receiving enthusiastic support from women. In his essay - "In remembrance of a Talented and Courageous Poetess”, Dr. Phan Van Hoang wrote: " She vehemently criticized obsolete customs such as male chauvinism, child marriage, and polygamy…, defending the legitimate rights of women. In 1934, she went to four cities (Hue, Ha Noi, Nam Dinh, and Hai Phong) to deliver speeches on topics such as 'Public Opinion of Men Regarding Progressive Women,' 'A Day in the Life of a Progressive Woman,' 'Should Marriage Be a Matter of Free Choice?' and 'Should Polygamy Be Abolished?' Her ideas during these speeches sparked a dichotomy of public opinion (with both support and opposition) being reflected in the press from the country’s South to North…” Through her fervent journey, one can discern the intimate connection between the individual and history, how an individual can shape history.
A DISTINCTIVE MARK IN THE FEMINIST MOVEMENT AND THE EARLY DAYS OF THE NEW POETRY MOVEMENT
Manh Manh the poetess was a visionary thinker. In issue 228 of Duoc Nha Nam published on December 14, 1933, she wrote in response to Hoang Tam from the Duoc Nha Nam press: " Because there are many pressing issues more important than poetry, we delayed our publication. Now that you mention preparing to celebrate your victory, I will draft a New Poetry piece I wrote two months ago for publication. If you have spare time and the Duoc Nha Nam is short of content, let me know, and I will provide several New Poetry pieces for you to publish and critique at once ." Each of her statements reflected the progressive awareness of her time. While most contemporary Confucian scholars opposed New Poetry and viewed it as a romantic but superficial literary, disconnected from real life, Nguyen Thi Kiem, with her modern ideas, robust writing skills, and sharp, incisive language, boldly expressed her support for the New Poetry movement. She highlighted how the rigid rules and strict conventions of classical Tang poetry stifled the creative potential of artists. She was the author of several poems published in the Women’s New Literature newspaper, such as “Two Young Ladies” and “A Poem Sent to Addicts: Madame Lafugie – the Explorer and Artist”:
“The one who traversed regardless of scorching sun, frigid snow, slanting lands, and breaking rocks.
Dressed like a comrade, riding horseback, traversing mountains, wading through trenches, descending into pits, ascending slopes
Accompanied by a group of local guides, braving the rugged terrain.
Enduring calm days, stormy nights…”
…
“Do you hear me, gentlemen? Or is it:
While my soul is stirred, by the presence of a newly glimpsed talent,
While I fervently sing of the courage, the fierce determination, the heroism,
Of a woman, you lie indifferently, still poking, searching, smoking, addicted.
Oh, gentlemen, indeed for life, around the world:
You are not men, and you are not even worthy of being women!”
("Phụ nữ tân văn", no. 239, 26/4/1934)
Notably, she composed the poem “A Letter to All Who Love or Hate New Poetry” – a work that served as a manifesto advocating for the New Poetry movement.
“Yes, it's me, Manh Manh, friends!
It’s been so long since I wrote poetry, did you grow edgy?
Yes, it's me, Manh Manh, gentlemen!
It’s been so long since I wrote poetry, did you find it errie?...”
The dear friends quietly ask: “Perhaps... afraid?
Poor thing! So young, a bit naive maybe...”
The disdainful friends shout loudly: “Ah! She's daunted!
How pathetic! So tiny, yet ought to carry the flag.”
Bowing, I respond: “My dear friends,
Daunted how? Listen: Manh isn’t ‘tamed’ yet.”
Arms crossed, I call: “Oh, you mocking gentlemen,
Hold your pride, stand still while I reveal many a thing.”
With rather provocative, sharp, and caustic words in this poem, we encounter a completely different Manh Manh the poetess. No longer a gentle woman adhering to the standards of the 20th century, she dared to break free from those molds to express her true self. This poem serves as a "letter" marking her return to the literary scene after a period of silence. She chose a very novel way of expression for that time. No subtlety, no allusion, she spoke candidly and somewhat bluntly to those who were old-fashioned and unwilling to embrace new ideas. Additionally, she engaged in a fiery debate with Mr. Nguyen Van Hanh at the Saigon Learning Promotion Association on January 9, 1935, about traditional poetry versus New Poetry. Her courageous actions on the literary forum garnered much respect. She was a well-educated woman who dared to stand up, voice her opinions, and defend them to the end. Even in a more progressive era, it was rare to find someone like Manh Manh, who audaciously fought for her beliefs, let alone during her time. Dao Trinh Nhat praised her as " the first to boldly advocate for New Poetry in Southern Vietnam."
In 2005, she passed away in Paris, France, leaving behind a legacy of 10 New Poetry poems: "Visiting the Empty Room", "Poetry Sent to Van", "Sleepwalking", "Late Night”, "Falling Leaves”, "Descent", "Two Young Ladies", "A Letter to All Who Love or Hate New Poetry", "A New Poem Sent to Addicts: Madame Lafugie - the Explorer and Artist", "Late Night in Xuan Loc",... Notably, she also wrote a series of travelogues: "The Journey from South to North", "Hanoi, First Impressions”, (Phu Nu Tan Van, October 25, 1934, November 8, 1934, December 13, 1934), "At the Foot of Ca Pass", (Phu Nu Tan Van, issue 252, 1934), and many other articles and reports. Throughout her literary career, she catalyzed a new wave in women's journalism and began a new chapter in the history of Vietnamese New Poetry, which was predominantly leaning towards classical Tang poetry.
Beyond the tangible values Manh Manh left for literature was her progressive ideas about feminism, her role as a valiant woman who spoke out for her personal beliefs in feminism, societal respect for her advocacy of human rights.
Thus, Nguyen Thi Kiem's significant contributions have garnered high regard and acclaim, celebrated for taking the initiative in advocating the New Poetry movement, for freedom and liberalism, and representing the progress of contemporary women. Her individualistic efforts in the fight for women's rights to freedom and equality across various domains will continue to live on.
Author: Thuý Nga, Nguyên Minh
English 
Vietnamese
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