Classic and Contemporary Poetry: Explained

WOMAN POEM, by YOLANDE CORNELIA GIOVANNI Poet Analysis Poet's Biography

"Woman Poem" is a poem written by Yolande Cornelia Giovanni, also known as Nikki Giovanni, and was published in her 1975 poetry collection titled "Ego-Tripping and Other Poems for Young People."

Explanation:

The poem is a celebration of the power and strength of women, acknowledging their resilience in the face of hardship and oppression. The speaker describes the various roles that women occupy, from mother to lover to warrior, and asserts that women are not defined by the men in their lives. Instead, they possess their own inherent worth and strength, which should be celebrated and uplifted. The poem ultimately serves as a call to action for women to recognize and embrace their own power and worth.

Poetic Elements:

Plot: The poem is an ode to women, celebrating their strength, resilience, and beauty. The speaker praises women for their ability to endure hardships and still emerge victorious.
Form: Free verse, with no discernible rhyme scheme or meter.
Theme: The theme of the poem is the power and importance of women in society.
Imagery: The poem contains vivid imagery of women as warriors, goddesses, and powerful figures. The use of vivid imagery helps to emphasize the strength and beauty of women.
Tone: The tone of the poem is celebratory and uplifting. The speaker has a deep admiration for women and their ability to overcome obstacles.
Sound: The poem contains alliteration, assonance, and repetition, which help to create a musical quality to the words.
Language: The language is simple and straightforward, with an occasional use of slang or colloquialisms.
Figurative Language: The poem contains similes, metaphors, and personification to help convey the speaker's admiration for women.
Structure: The poem is composed of eight stanzas, each containing three to four lines. The repetition of the phrase "women" at the beginning of each stanza serves to emphasize the importance of women.
Symbolism: The use of symbols, such as the rose and the rainbow, represent the beauty and strength of women.
Emotion: The poem evokes a sense of admiration and pride in women.

Conclusion:

"Woman Poem" is a powerful ode to the strength and beauty of women. Giovanni's use of vivid imagery, figurative language, and sound devices help to create a musical and celebratory tribute to women.

Four lines of poetry:

"women

magic

is wisdom

and love"