For Fear

For fear of prowling beasts at night
  They blocked the cave;
Women and children hid from sight,
  Men scarce more brave.

For fear of warrior's sword and spear
  They barred the gate;
Women and children lived in fear,
  Men lived in hate.

For fear of criminals today
  We lock the door;
Women and children still to stay
  Hid evermore.

Come out! Ye need no longer hide!
  What fear you now?
No wolf or lion waits outside–
  Only a cow.

Come out! The world approaches peace,
  War nears its end;
No warrior watches your release–
  Only a friend.

Come out! The night of crime has fled–
  Day is begun;
Here is no criminal to dread–
  Only your son.

The world, half yours, demands your care,
  Waken and come!
Make it a woman's world; safe, fair,
  Garden and home.
For Fear

by Charlotte Perkins Gilman, 1911
