Monday, April 18, 2011

"A Poetic View" 2011 National Poetry Month Spotlight for this week: Maya Angelou

Maya Angelou born Marguerite Ann Johnson on April 4, 1928, is an author, writer and poet who writes poetry with a flair of color and a whole lot of jazz. Angelou recited her poem "On the Pulse of Morning" at President Bill Clinton's inauguration in 1993, she is only the 2nd poet to have recited poetry during a presidential inauguration in our nation's history. Angelou one of our nation's most recognized poet's has also worn many hats throughout her life & career including those of a civil rights activist, dancer, film producer, television producer, playwright, film director, author, actress and professor.

Dr. Angelou has received over 30 honorary degrees and is Reynolds Professor of American Studies at Wake Forest University. On February 15, 2011, she was awarded the Presidential Medal of Freedom the nation's highest civilian honor for contributions to society.

The Lesson


I keep on dying again.
Veins collapse, opening like the
Small fists of sleeping
Children.
Memory of old tombs,
Rotting flesh and worms do
Not convince me against
The challenge. The years
And cold defeat live deep in
Lines along my face.
They dull my eyes, yet
I keep on dying,
Because I love to live.

Maya Angelou

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