Please provide an analysis of the poem "Still I Rise" by Maya Angelou.

Maya Angelou’s as a writer epitomizes the intellectual black
woman. Her wit and wisdom find a home in her poetry.  The theme of never “giving up or in” to
adversity typifies her view of the black woman rising above the expectations that were once so
understated, something we find in her poem "Still I
Rise." 

Tone

The
tone of the poem implies strength and bitterness.  In addition, the optimism of the poet shines
through as she knows that even if the worst happens and someone is down, she will rise again much
like the Phoenix in Egyptian mythology. Angelou always interjects humor along with a sardonic
attitude, which can be said to be a part of the persona of a black
woman.

Theme

Her
theme is addressed in the title of the poem “Still I Rise.” Nothing can keep the black woman from
getting up from adversity and standing beautiful and strong. Angelou’s poem written in 1978 was
prophetic.  Since the publication of the poem, there have been several black congresswomen.  We
have had a black Secretary of State and United Nations ambassador. These women have risen to the
highest places in the
land.

Form

The
poem does have a rhyming pattern.  It does not follow any set form.  The vocabulary is forceful.
Angelou uses dialogue and some black dialect.  The poem gives several scenarios that place a
black woman or any woman in a compromising situation.
 

Summary

She
seems to speak to white civilization or white men. 

Speaking about
the way that history perceives the black woman in a negative view; the poet says that she will
rise out of the dust. 

The poem implies that black women are sassy. 
Her attitude is one of arrogance, and she walks as though she is very
rich.

Just like the natural world in which everyone knows what will
happen, she will rise like the moon.

The poet lists several
scenarios that this woman has faced.

readability="6">

Does my haughtiness offend you?
Don't you take
it awful hard
'Cause I laugh like I've got gold mines
Diggin' in my own back
yard.

Well, do not expect it from the
poet. She does not need anyone’s pity: It is shameful how the black people have been treated. But
this person will rise about it. This strong black woman will rise like the ocean with its tides
and waves swelling… no more fear. When the sun rises, the poet will rise with
it. 

She will bring all of the traits and talents that her ancestors
bestowed on her. The new black woman is the hope of the future. She will
rise.

The poem provides a spirited guide for the young black woman
to follow.  Nothing will keep a person down if she keeps on trying. Rising out of poverty, abuse,
slavery---no one will keep these beautiful, elegant, sassy women from achieving their
goals.