International Women's Day: A Look Back

For International Women's Day 2026, S P Clark is taking a look back at some of his poems written with women at the heart of them.

Just click the links below to read / watch!

1. The first poem Clark selected for you is a tribute to the 2nd woman to win the Nobel Peace Prize, Bertha von Suttner. Her writings (literature, essays, speeches etc.) contained powerful messages of equality, love, hope and peace. Enjoy Bertha von Suttner's Peace.

   
   

2. Sappho: History's Lyre is a tribute to the great LGBT icon and writer, Sappho. Her writing and legacy has spoken for itself since 600BC. This was Clark's small paean to her.

   
   

3. This poem and its accompanying video were created in 2020 to mark International Day of the Girl which is observed annually on October 11th to recognizs girls' rights and the unique challenges they face worldwide, including unequal education access, violence, and child marriage. It promotes empowerment, voices, and agency, aiming to accelerate gender equality and ensure girls can reach their full potential. This was Clark's celebration of those he has actually known and was close to in his life. To Every Girl That I Have Known is here for your viewing pleasure.

   
   

4. Margaret Ashton is a name that seemed to have been lost to history but is slowly having her legacy celebrated and understood. Her devotion to the cause of women and equality led her to Manchester City Council, her vocal support of pacifisim in the face of doubts about her patriotism - these are just some of the reasons Clark wrote Margaret's Message.

   
   

5. Clark brings you a poem in honour of one of his biggest idols, Frida Khalo. Frida Khalo: Dolor Constante, Búsqueda Constante explores the contradictions of her life, work and legacy.

Happy International Women's Day!