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Phillis Wheatley (1753 – 5 December 1784 / Gambia)
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Phillis Wheatley was the first published African American poet and first African-American woman whose writings helped create the genre of African American literature. Born in Gambia, she was made a slave at age seven. She was purchased by the Wheatley family of Boston, who taught her to read and write, and helped encourage her poetry.
The 1773 publication of Wheatley's Poems on Various Subjects, Religious and Moral brought her fame, with figures such as George Washington praising her work. Wheatley also toured England and was praised in a poem by fellow African American poet Jupiter Hammon. Wheatley was emancipated by her owners after her poetic success, but stayed with the ... more »
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thanks for the witty poem sir....
One poet I am not crazy about is Phillis Wheatley Maybe it is because I can't relate to her work. I am not saying she is a bad poet- to others she might be great. Maybe I am the stupid one because her writing doesn't appeal to me- but I think no poet is loved by everyone and nobody is perfect. I am sure a lot of people dislike my poetry and I am interested in why they don't just as I am interested in why others do like it. It is all in the eyes of the beholder but Phillis Wheatley's poetry I just cannot relate to. I won't say why because other readers might call me a racist. But people have to be willing to accept negative comments as well as the positive ones! ! !
This poem is awesome Phillis. You are a good poet, I really enjoyed thath one especially.Keep up the good work. Truly Awesome.............