In 1974, Luce Irigaray published 'Speculum of the Other Woman', a critical examination of Freudian psychoanalysis and Western philosophy's portrayal of women. Irigaray argues that women have been defined merely as the 'lack' or reflection of men, advocating for a rethinking of female identity and subjectivity. Her work has been pivotal in feminist theory, challenging traditional narratives and promoting a more nuanced understanding of gender and sexuality.

Irigaray's 'Speculum of the Other Woman' challenged patriarchal language, inspiring female poets to explore new forms of expression. Her theories on 'parler-femme' encouraged a reimagining of poetic syntax and themes, fostering a rich dialogue on gender and identity in literature.