Beautiful!

Beauty is a concept that holds a special place in our hearts and minds. It has the power to captivate us, inspire us, and bring a sense of joy and wonder.

Whether it is the beauty of nature, with its majestic mountains, serene lakes, and colorful sunsets, or the beauty of art, with its creative expressions and unique forms, it has the ability to touch our souls.

Beauty can also be found in the simplest of things, like a smile on a child's face or a kind gesture from a stranger.

It is a universal language that transcends cultures and boundaries, uniting us in our appreciation and admiration.

In a world that can often be chaotic and overwhelming, beauty provides a refuge, a source of inspiration, and a reminder of the good and the wonderful that exists all around us.

Let us always keep our eyes open to the beauty that surrounds us and allow it to enrich our lives and make the world a more beautiful place.

Pretty women often wonder where my secret lies. I'm not the kind of cute or built to fit a fashion model's size. But when I begin to tell them, they think I'm telling lies. I say, it's in the reach of my arms, the span of my hips, the stride of my step, and the curl of my lips. I'm a woman, phenomenally. Phenomenal woman, that's me.

I walk into a room just as cool as you please, and to a man, the fellows either stand or fall down on their knees. Then they swarm around me like a hive of honey bees. I say, it's the fire in my eyes, the flash of my teeth, the swing in my waist, and the joy in my feet. I'm a woman, phenomenally. Phenomenal woman, that's me.

Men themselves have wondered what they see in me. They try so hard, but they can't touch my inner mystery. When I attempt to show them, they say they still can't see. I say, it's in the arch of my back, the sun of my smile, the ride of my breasts, and the grace of my style. I'm a woman, phenomenally. Phenomenal woman, that's me.

Now you understand just why my head's not bowed. I don't shout or jump about or have to talk real loud. When you see me passing, it ought to make you proud. I say, it's in the click of my heels, the bend of my hair, the palm of my hand, and the need of my care, because I'm a woman, phenomenally. Phenomenal woman, that's me.

I'm a woman
Phenomenally.
Phenomenal woman,
That's me.

Angelou's "Phenomenal Woman: Four Poems Celebrating Women" is, as the title implies, a compilation of four potent and inspiring poems that glorify the essence of being a woman. The robust and lyrical tone of Angelou reverberates throughout the poems "Phenomenal Woman", "Still I Rise", "Weekend Glory", and "Our Grandmothers". In these works, the author delineates the physical and spiritual traits and qualities that render her alluring. These poems are both personal and universal narratives that accentuate the remarkable qualities of women, their reactions to hardships and oppression, and how they triumph over oppression through hope, faith, and tenacity. An advocate of feminism and womanism, Maya Angelou was the voice for black people and women, and her works have been regarded as a defense of black culture, emanating the inner strength of black women in an indescribable manner.

The eponymous poem "Phenomenal Woman", which serves as an anthem for female empowerment, reminds us that women are astonishing and capable of attaining anything they desire. She repudiates the narrow and prejudiced societal expectations of women and presents an alternative viewpoint on what defines true beauty. Angelou deems confidence and ease in one's own skin as the hallmarks of genuine beauty, rather than a stereotypical body image. She conveys an empowering message to all women to be as phenomenal as she is. In "Still I Rise", she emerges as a force to be reckoned with, becoming a beacon of hope for the oppressed and downtrodden. She pierces everyone with her words and reminds them of their shameful history of torture and discrimination, deeply rooted in pain and hate. Conscious of her pride, sexuality, and place in the world, she openly proclaims how she will rise like a phoenix from the ashes of injustice, brutality, and persecution, with dignity and integrity.

In "Weekend Glory", Angelou extols an independent and hardworking woman who discovers the perfect equilibrium between life and work. Angelou appears to have unearthed the guidelines for living a fulfilling life without being wealthy or materialistic, or having to conform to the eye or standards of society to have fun and relish life to the fullest. She is content with her life, stating, "My life ain't heaven, but it sure ain't hell." "Our Grandmothers" is a poignant poem that chronicles the struggle of a woman striving to overcome her enslavement and oppression. She draws upon the experiences of all ethnic backgrounds where mothers and grandmothers engage in a battle to surmount their obstacles. The poem embodies the determination and resistance of black women and the belief that she cannot be undone, will not be broken… and "shall not be moved" despite the endless attempts to destroy her.

Angelou's poetry is even more vivid and forceful in her performance. Therefore, it would be advantageous to listen to the expressive recitation of the poem in her voice, as it will undoubtedly leave you spellbound. This collection of poems is something we can always turn to when we are exasperated and disheartened by the pressure of a misogynistic and constrictive world. Her words, which cut like a knife, have the power to penetrate our souls, thus imploring us to continue her fight for women's rights and freedom.

The poetry collection is a bilingual edition in English and German.

I had previously read "I Know Why the Caged Bird Sings" by Maya Angelou, which is highly recommended as one can learn more about a part of Maya Angelou's life there and some of these experiences can be found again in her poems.

However, her poems do not only deal with her own life, but also that of her ancestors and the history of slavery. Some begin tragically and end empowering, others are sexy and proudly show Maya Angelou's self-confidence. However, there are also poems that thematize her disappointment about always only being the lover for men.

Overall, it is a very diverse poetry collection in an understandable language. Highly recommended!

Translated by Judith Zander.

"You may write me down in history with your bitter, twisted lies. You may trop me in the very dirt. But still, like dust, I'll rise. "

This powerful statement reflects the indomitable spirit within us. No matter how others try to defame or degrade us with their false words and actions, we have the strength to overcome. Just like dust, which seems insignificant but can rise and float freely in the air, we too can rise above the challenges and hardships thrown our way.

History is often written by those in power, and sometimes the truth gets distorted. But that doesn't mean we should let their lies define us. We have the ability to rewrite our own stories, to prove them wrong with our actions and achievements. Even when we are pushed down, we can find the courage to get back up and keep moving forward.

So, let us not be discouraged by the negative opinions and actions of others. Instead, let us use them as fuel to rise higher and shine brighter. Like dust, we will rise and make our mark on the world.

Whenever I find myself feeling the weight of a misogynistic world pressing down on me, this is the very book that I will instinctively turn to. I will gently open this small collection consisting of just four poems and instantly draw upon the strength and power that only a truly phenomenal woman can possess. When the day comes that I have my own home and start to curate the books that I desire to have by my side, this particular volume will undoubtedly be among the very first that I seek out.

The words within these pages speak to my soul, as if they were written specifically for me. The poet's voice is like a guiding light in the darkness, offering me solace and inspiration. The lines, "They accuse me of livin' from day to day, but who are they kiddin'? So are they," resonate deeply within me, making me realize that we all have our own ways of getting by in this world.

And when I read, "My life ain't heaven but it sure ain't hell. I'm not on top but I call it swell," I am filled with a sense of acceptance and contentment. It reminds me that life is not always perfect, but that doesn't mean it can't be wonderful in its own way. This book is more than just a collection of poems; it is a source of strength and a reminder that I am not alone in this journey of life.

3.5 stars

When a book consists of merely a pamphlet's worth of poems, there is simply no space for mediocre or even just "that was good" poems.

The initial two poems are truly astonishing, transporting me back to the time when I had the good fortune to encounter her just a few months prior to her passing. It was a moment that I will always cherish.

However, the subsequent two poems did not possess the same level of strength and impact. Given that there were only four poems in total, this inevitably has a significant influence on the overall rating.

Nonetheless, the first two poems were so remarkable that they managed to salvage the situation to some extent, resulting in a rating of 3.5 stars. It's a bit of a mixed bag, but those first two poems are definitely worth the read.

On this day, 51 years ago, Roe v Wade granted women the precious right to abortion.

However, on June 24, 2022, the Dobbs decision shockingly took that right away.

It is truly amazing that this powerful book would come into my life today and offer me the chance to remind myself that we, women, are phenomenal.

We will still rise above all the challenges and setbacks.

I may not have endured the full wrath of the indignities that many women have faced, but we must all be strong and united in the fight for our rights.

Thank you, Maya Angelou, for your strong, gritty, and beautiful words that inspire us to keep going and never give up.

Her words serve as a powerful reminder that we have the strength within us to overcome any obstacle and claim our rightful place in society.

We will continue to fight for our reproductive rights and for the equality and dignity that we deserve.

No matter what, we will rise and make our voices heard.

One of the most authentic and unadulterated handbooks of the woman's psyche is a truly remarkable piece of work. It delves deep into the inner workings of a woman's mind, exploring her emotions, thoughts, and behaviors. This handbook provides valuable insights into the complex nature of women, helping readers to better understand and appreciate the unique qualities that make them who they are. With its detailed analysis and practical advice, it serves as an essential guide for anyone interested in the female psyche. Whether you are a woman looking to gain a better understanding of yourself or a man seeking to connect more deeply with the women in your life, this handbook is a must-read.

I am the dream and the hope of the slave.

I am that glimmer of light in the darkest of nights, the whisper of freedom in the ears of those who have long been bound.

I rise, not just once, but again and again.

With each rise, I bring a little more strength, a little more courage to the hearts of the oppressed.

I am the embodiment of their longing for a better life, a life free from the chains of slavery.

I rise like a phoenix from the ashes, defying all odds and showing the world that the spirit of the slave cannot be broken.

I am the dream and the hope that will one day lead to their liberation.

I rise, I rise, I rise.

Phenomenal Woman is truly an outstanding piece of work. It is absolutely beautiful, with words that have the power to touch the deepest parts of our souls. Reading this poem makes me stand up so tall, fills me with a sense of pride and confidence. The emotions it evokes are so intense that it even gave me goosebumps. It is no wonder that Phenomenal Woman is one of my favourite poems. It celebrates the strength, beauty, and essence of a woman in the most profound way. Maya Angelou's words in this poem are like a powerful anthem, inspiring women everywhere to embrace their individuality and shine bright. Each line is a masterpiece, painting a vivid picture of a woman who knows her worth and is unafraid to show it to the world.

Absolutely beautiful.
Makes me stand up so tall.
Gave me goosebumps.
Phenomenal Woman is one of my favourite poems.

This was yet another exquisitely beautiful piece of poetry, truly deserving of the 4 stars. In fact, it was a collector's edition that encompassed four outstanding poems. These poems were not only about women but also specifically for women.

It once again provided a profound insight into the lives of African Americans and the remarkable diversity of experiences within the community. The read was extremely light, yet it managed to be both thought-provoking and engaging.

The author's ability to capture the essence of the subject matter and present it in a captivating manner is truly commendable. Each poem seemed to tell a unique story, painting a vivid picture in the reader's mind.

Overall, this collection is highly recommended for anyone who appreciates beautiful poetry and wants to gain a deeper understanding of the African American experience. It is a must-read for poetry enthusiasts and those interested in exploring different cultures and perspectives.