What is the tone and theme of Maya Angelou's poem "Still I Rise"?
Theme. Strength of black women, or belief in oneself.
Tone. Hope? Pride?
What do you think?
Both the tone and the theme are summed up in her last lines:
"I am the dream and the hope of the slave.
I rise
I rise
I rise. "
http://www.poemhunter.com/poem/still-i-rise/
What do you think? I'll be glad to discuss it with you if I know your thoughts first.
" I am the dream and the hope of the slave." Refers to the woman the speaker has become (powerful and confident) which African American slaves aimed to obtain after all the inequalities and discrimination they experienced.
So theme = In a society that limits one's self-worth, with perseverance, one can overcome and triumph.
Am I on the right path...?
Yes! :-)
I think it also refers to the attitudes of some slaves even before they were emancipated. Angelou says that in a way slaves (or at least some slaves) were thumbing their noses at their masters behind their backs. She says that no one could keep their spirits down.
Would you agree "Still I Rise" also has autobiographical undertones such as Angelou's ? Could "Does my sassiness upset you?: (5) and "Does my sexiness upset you?" (25) express her finally finding confidence in her sexuality/ sensuality (because she felt guilty in her own for so long)?
I'm sure you're right.
ok thanks!
You're welcome.
To determine the tone and theme of Maya Angelou's poem "Still I Rise," you can begin by familiarizing yourself with the poem. Read the poem carefully, paying attention to the language, imagery, and overall message conveyed. By analyzing these elements, we can gain a deeper understanding of the tone and theme.
1. Read the poem: Begin by reading the poem multiple times to gain familiarity with its content and structure. This will help you identify the central ideas and emotions conveyed.
2. Identify the tone: The tone refers to the attitude or mood of the speaker towards the subject matter. To determine the tone of "Still I Rise," consider the emotions expressed throughout the poem. For example, the poem exudes strength, resilience, and defiance in the face of adversity. The speaker's words are confident and unwavering, emphasizing her determination to rise above challenges. This overall tone can be described as empowering and defiant.
3. Recognize the theme: A theme is the central idea or message that the poem conveys. In "Still I Rise," the primary theme is resilience and the unyielding spirit to overcome oppression and discrimination. The poet explores the power of self-confidence and the refusal to be defeated by society's attempts to oppress and marginalize. The poem celebrates the indomitable human spirit and the ability to rise above adversity.
In summary, the tone of Maya Angelou's poem "Still I Rise" is empowering and defiant, while the main theme is resilience, strength, and the refusal to be oppressed.