"The neuter gender denotes objects which are neither male nor female.

A gaunt, tall, spectacled creature, gender feminine, number singular, person first, case always possessive, that's the standard bearer; a broomstick from the top of which floats a petticoat, that's the standard.

"But the poem was written a long time ago, before non-specific gender language was in vogue.

May wrath and thoughts that gender shame Ne'er in our breasts abide.