📝 Phenomenal Woman – Maya Angelou
đź“Ś Poet Bio:
Maya Angelou (1928–2014) was a celebrated African-American poet, memoirist, and civil rights activist. Her works are known for celebrating Black womanhood, resilience, and empowerment, often with a strong autobiographical voice.
đź“Ś Summary:
In this empowering poem, Angelou speaks confidently about her self-worth, rejecting society’s narrow beauty standards. She attributes her attractiveness not to looks but to inner strength, charisma, and pride. The poem becomes an anthem of empowerment for all women who are “phenomenal” in their individuality.
The repetition of the phrase “I’m a woman / Phenomenally / Phenomenal woman / That’s me” reinforces the poem’s message of self-celebration. Angelou reclaims power by embracing her own identity and inspiring others to do the same.
đź“Ś Themes: Feminine power, self-worth, body image, resilience
đź“Ś Style: Repetition, conversational tone, strong rhythm, free verse with emphasis