Maya Angelou (4 April 1928)

I remember the first time that I read the work of Maya Angelou - that was approximately 16 years ago. From that point on, she has been a favorite of mines. Whenever I am feeling sad and/or blue, I know that I can read one of her poems and I am instantly uplifted.

I have had the pleasure of seeing her in person and she is truly a phenomenal woman. Therefore, I will say for the people who claim that she lacks depth, you have so missed the point of her work. That opening line of 'Pretty women wonder where my secret lies, I am not cute or built to fit a fashion model sizes', says it all. That line and the image that is conveyed is that of a woman who will not be judged and/or labeled based upon a one dimensional standards of beauty. Maya depicts that confidence in self is the greatest gift that a person can have - for without that, one is confined and/or defined by someone else definitions.

I am proud of Maya and her work. She is one of the rare gems that have transcended and epitomize the very essence of what human beings should strive to be. She is most extraordinary and can be appreciated by all regardless of race, gender, and/or sexual orientation. She speaks to the soul and anyone who can read her work and not have their soul shaken and/or stirred is void and empty. That is the ultimate tragedy.

Go on Miss Maya, you are the ultimate diva of divas. This gay black man is most grateful for the gifts that you have shared with the world. Smooches Darling :)

'Poetry hound' must be a man and probably an older man, haha. This poem is beautiful! She accepts herself the way she is and she knows that he beauty comes from within. She is confident and proud. This poem is notably inspiring.

Holy Cowper's glands! So simple, yet so brilliant. Jeez! No wonder this poem's No: 1

10/10 I say! Nice and subtle!

Omg I love you and your poems
hi i am 9 years old my name is ava halll
i know it says im 35 but im not
but i love your pems so much i am going to writemy own poem about you! ! !

This poem has inspired many, many people-Halle Berry, Oprah, and of course me. I see this poem as a treasure one must either keep or let it go. Anyway you decide with this poem it will move you!

Leice :)

I don't think that at any time was Maya Angelou referring specifically to black women alone. I think she is expressing the awareness of how truly wonderful she is as a creation and everything that makes her a phenomenal woman. The details that set you apart from masculinity truly are unique to you. Such awareness, love & respect for oneself is beautiful and inspiring. . For those who see no depth to this poem: You are phenomenal, for you see what YOU wish

Self-affirmation is all well and good, but this poem is silly. It reads like it came from a comic book. It has no depth. She says pretty women wonder what her secret is, but it looks like she doesn't have a secret, or if she does, who cares?

it is all what can be said about a women. No more no less phenomenal!

lovely description of a woman, phenomenal!

Every woman has an outer beauty some appreciate and an inner unfathomable one that few really can! Understanding one's own self is the most important step to a successful and satisfying living on earth.The 'externals' aren't as important as the 'internals'!
A great truth brought out in a great manner.
With regards,
Dr John Celes