This poignant quote by Marge Piercy challenges societal perceptions and expectations placed upon women. Throughout history, women have often been reduced to objects of scrutiny—viewed through a scientific lens that dissects their bodies, as if they are laboratories rather than individuals with complex identities. The metaphor of viewing women’s bodies as “science projects” underscores the invasive and objectifying attitude that neglects personal agency and emotional wealth. Describing women as “gardens to be weeded” evokes the image of women being carefully controlled, manipulated, and shaped according to societal standards, often suppressing their true selves in the process. The phrase “dogs to be trained” suggests the conditioning and conformity expected of women, training them to behave in predetermined acceptable ways. The culminating question, “When will a woman cease to be made of pain?” strikes at the core of gender-based suffering, pointing to the pervasive way in which women’s physical and emotional pain have historically been dismissed, ignored, or normalized. Piercy’s words serve as a stark reminder of how far society still has to go in recognizing women’s fullest humanity, free from demeaning labels, objectification, and suffering. Her call for change highlights a desire for a future where women are valued for their intrinsic worth and individuality, not just their utility or compliance. This quote resonates deeply as a reflection of ongoing struggles for gender equality, personal liberation, and respect for women’s bodies and identities.