Alfonsina Storni

Argentinian feminist poet who challenged gender norms through bold literary works in early 20th-century Latin America.

Alfonsina Storni (1892–1938) redefined Latin American literature with her unapologetic exploration of female autonomy. Born in Switzerland, she moved to Argentina as a child. Her poetry, such as 'Languidez' (1920) and 'Mundo de siete pozos' (1934), confronted societal expectations of women, blending modernist aesthetics with feminist themes.

Storni's work critiqued patriarchal structures, as seen in her iconic poem 'Hombre pequeñito' ('Little Man'), which mocked male fragility. She co-founded the Argentinian Writers' Union in 1928, advocating for women's inclusion in literary circles. Her essays in 'La Nación' newspaper sparked debates on education and suffrage.

Storni’s suicide in 1938, immortalized in the tango 'Alfonsina y el Mar', amplified her legacy as a symbol of resistance. Her influence persists in feminist movements, with universities like UBA offering courses on her contributions.