In Claudia Rankine's poem "from Citizen, VI [On the train the woman standing]," the woman standing affects the man in a complex and multifaceted way. She occupies space.
As the poem states, "On the train the woman standing makes you understand there are no seats available." Even though there is technically an empty seat, the woman's presence fills the space, forcing the man to remain standing. This physical act of taking up space has a psychological impact on the man, making him feel uncomfortable and even invisible.
The poem's title, "On the train the woman standing," highlights the unusual nature of the situation. In many cultures, it is considered polite to offer a seat to someone standing, especially an older woman. By remaining standing, the woman deviates from social expectations, making the man question his own actions and potentially causing him to feel self-conscious.
Complete question
In On the train the woman standing Poem How does the woman standing affect the man? Cite evidence from the poem in your answer