"Fast Speaking Woman" is one of the best poems I've ever read, and it captures everything that the Beats attempted (and attempt) to capture in their stream of conciousness writing. She's defining herself, but she is also defining every other woman, because we can all do what she did. She is uplifting, and fabulous! The rest of the chants are awe inspiring, especially when chanted aloud so that you can get the full expereince. If you like Allen Ginsberg, et. all, you will love Waldman. She is a true Beat woman, who does not need to define herself through the men that she associates with.